Too many logins. Too many catalogs. Too many “where is that spec” moments when a customer is standing right in front of you. We wanted to know what actually changes when RTO dealers and vendors stop treating sourcing like a scavenger hunt and start running it like a modern retail workflow, so we brought on Michael Costa from AMP Tablet Solutions, better known across the industry as AmTab.

Michael walks us through how AMP started by replacing paper catalogs with an iPad app, then expanded into a connected platform where product photography, dimensions, videos, pricing, and inventory can live in one place. We talk about the real reason vendors shouldn’t fear being shown next to competitors, and why better data, faster updates, and simpler buying often win the deal. If you care about rent-to-own purchasing, furniture sourcing, and reducing order errors, this conversation is packed with practical details.

We also get into the tools RTO teams ask about most: AMP Shop for B2B ordering, curated catalogs that mix vendors into one branded experience, kiosk-style browsing with AMP Avenue, and guardrails like approval steps and budget tracking so stores can move quickly without creating messy POs. Michael explains integration options too, from simple Excel-based workflows to deeper ERP connections like QuickBooks and NetSuite, plus where AI could help in the future with smarter search and better product descriptions.

If you’re trying to buy smarter, sell faster, and keep your team aligned, hit play, share this with an operator who lives in vendor portals all day, and subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next. After you listen, what’s the one workflow change you’d make tomorrow?

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

For a lot of people in this industry, Washington DC exists somewhere in the background — a place where policy gets made while operators focus on customers, staff, and the day-to-day grind of running a business. But spend a few days at LegCon and that changes. Pete Shau sits down with Lauren Talicska, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Arona Home Essentials, right after she returned from LegCon 2026, and the energy she brought back says everything.

Lauren walks through what APRO-led advocacy actually looks like up close — and why the experience is more accessible than most people assume. It's not reserved for attorneys, executives, or political insiders. Through the fellowship program, store managers, marketers, and operators are getting in front of legislators and telling the rent-to-own story in their own words. Lauren explains how the days are structured, how teams find their rhythm in those meetings, and how keeping the message focused — sometimes down to a single economic impact sheet — makes all the difference.

What stands out most is the power of a customer's own words. Lauren describes using Google reviews as a form of written testimony — reviews where customers talk about a rent-to-own purchase being the first furniture they've ever owned. The conversation also gets into what the alternatives actually look like for someone with limited or damaged credit: the uncertainty of marketplace transactions, the long shadow of credit card debt, and how rent-to-own provides a level of service and protection those options simply don't offer.

The episode rounds out with a broader look at leadership development, the women's forum, mentorship inside the industry, and why the relationships built in this space tend to outlast everything else.

Subscribe, pass this episode along to someone on your team who could use a reminder of the bigger picture, and leave a review to help more operators find it. What part of the rent-to-own story do you think deserves more attention?

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Pete Shau sits down with Amberlee Maya and Charles Smitherman to recap LegCon 2026, APRO’s legislative conference in Washington, D.C. They discuss the power of industry advocacy, the growth of first-time attendees, the importance of building relationships with lawmakers and staffers, and why the rent-to-own industry must continue telling its own story with one clear voice.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A tire shop can sell rubber all day and still lose the customer the moment service feels cold, slow, or unsafe. We bring on Jason Shuey from RNR Tire Express to explain how a fast-growing rent-to-own automotive franchise builds loyalty with training, systems, and real customer care that feels personal the second you walk through the door.  

We talk about Jason’s path from Sears Auto Center into leadership, why ASE certification can matter, and why hands-on coaching beats “read the book and take a test” training when real cars and real families are on the line. Jason breaks down the service manager role his group is rolling out across stores, how an MIT program rotates future leaders through the shop and accounts, and why account management is where you truly learn the RTO transaction and earn long-term trust.  

Then we get practical on operations: what RNR Tire Express includes for customers, how the business expands beyond wheels into alignments, brakes, suspension, and lift kits, and how digital workflow tools like Shopmonkey help balance speed, quality, and safety in high-volume locations. We also look ahead at tire and wheel industry trends like AI-enabled tools, electric vehicle lift-point risks, and the next wave of Bluetooth TPMS sensors.  

If you care about customer retention, technician training, safety culture, and scalable processes in the rent-to-own industry, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a leader in your shop, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Some people leave a company behind. Others leave an industry stronger than they found it. We’re closing the first RTO Legends series with a tribute to Ernie Lewallen, a rent-to-own leader whose influence reached far beyond the stores he operated and into the standards, relationships, and advocacy that protect RTO for the next generation.

We walk through Ernie’s story, from entering the rent-to-own industry in 1986 to building a decades-long reputation for showing up, doing the work, and doing it with integrity. His service record speaks volumes: years on the APRO Board of Directors, time on the executive committee, a term as APRO president, and consistent presence at legislative conferences in Washington to help lawmakers understand what rent-to-own really is and why it matters to customers.

Then we step back and let the people who knew him best fill in what a resume can’t. You’ll hear stories of a larger-than-life presence, a firm point of view, and a surprising tenderness underneath it all. Colleagues describe how he welcomed newcomers, mentored leaders, and pushed for decisions that were right for the industry even when they were hard. Along the way, we share the personal details that kept him grounded: family first, a love of travel and road trips, and the Beatles turned up loud.

If you care about rent-to-own leadership, industry advocacy, or the RTO Industry History Project, this tribute is a reminder that the best legacies are carried forward. Subscribe for more stories that preserve RTO history, share this with someone who worked alongside Ernie, and leave a review to help others find the series—what lesson about leadership are you taking from his example?

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

In this Legend Series episode of The RTO Show, Pete Shau sits down with David Paul David of Ful-Pep, one of the most influential operators and advocates the rent-to-own industry has ever seen.

From working the family farm as a child to scaling a multi-state operation, David shares how discipline, people-first leadership, and relentless consistency shaped Ful-Pep’s growth. The conversation explores early store expansion, acquisitions, culture building, association leadership, and decades of advocacy through state and national organizations.

This episode highlights what separates longevity from short-term success—and why investing in employees, community, and industry leadership continues to pay dividends. For operators, leaders, and anyone passionate about the future of rent-to-own, this is a masterclass in doing business the right way.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

This Legend Series episode of The RTO Show features John Cleek Jr. of Cleek's RTO, reflecting on the life, leadership, and lasting industry impact of his father, John “Tiger” Cleek.

From the early days of a family appliance business to decades of service through state and national associations, this conversation highlights what it means to lead with conviction, integrity, and heart. John shares how his father’s commitment to community, advocacy, and people-first leadership helped shape not only Cleek's RTO, but the rent-to-own industry as a whole.

This episode is a powerful reminder that true leadership isn’t measured by store count or titles—but by the lives you touch, the standards you set, and the legacy you leave behind.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

In this episode of The RTO Show, Pete Shau sits down with Kevin Silvers to trace a career built on relationships, adaptability, and a genuine love for people. Kevin shares stories from his early days around golf legends like Arnold Palmer and Michael Jordan, his transition into the jewelry business, his deep involvement in rent-to-own, and the path that led to King of Promotions. Along the way, he talks about training, leadership, vendor longevity, and why knowing people matters more than making the pitch. This is a conversation about staying curious, showing up, and building a reputation that lasts.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A rent-to-own business doesn’t last 40 years by accident and it definitely doesn’t start with perfect funding. I’m joined by Mike Tissett to tell the story behind Daryl Tissett’s legacy, from a small-town Ohio beginning to a blueprint that helped shape the rent-to-own industry and a company built on trust, service, and steady growth. If you’ve ever wondered what really creates long-term customers in RTO, this conversation gets specific fast. 

We talk through the real mechanics: early financing challenges, why collections discipline matters when cash is tight, and why Daryl’s “months to recover” metric still influences how Mike thinks about inventory, pricing, and reinvestment. We also dig into leadership principles that scale, especially the idea that the best decisions happen close to the customer. Empowerment at the store level, strong training, and clear standards beat motivational posters every time. 

From there, we zoom out to strategy and innovation: why small towns and county seats can be the perfect fit for rent-to-own, how free delivery and setup create loyalty, and why trying new products early (furniture, computers, gaming) can separate leaders from followers. Mike also shares how technology, CRM, online leads, and even AI are becoming practical tools for modern rent-to-own retail without losing the relationship-based foundation that makes the model work. 

We close with Daryl’s industry impact through APRO, TRIB, Ohio advocacy, and the Midwest Expo, plus a powerful reminder that legacy is people, not trophies. Subscribe for more Legends stories, share this with someone building a customer-first business, and leave a review with the one principle you’re taking into next week.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Forty-four years ago, Mike Strong opened a rent-to-own store in Hutchinson, Kansas with a pickup, good credit, and a willingness to outwork the problem. Today, Mike’s Rent To Own has grown into 14 locations, and I got to sit down with Mike and his kids to hear the full family story, the rough edges included. We talk about the leap from an Army medic during the Vietnam era to corporate life at Chrysler, and why entrepreneurship felt like the only path where the future wasn’t capped by someone else’s plan.

Then we get into the real mechanics of building an RTO business that lasts: financing inventory when rates are brutal, doing deliveries after closing, and even the early days of running accounts on payment cards before rent-to-own software and modern systems changed everything. Mike shares the moment Curtis Mathis collapsed and how that forced a pivot into new vendors, furniture, appliances, and the constant question every RTO dealer faces, what do customers actually want right now? From VCRs and movie clubs to laptops, gaming systems, and Apple devices, the throughline is listening hard and finding a way to say yes.

We also dig into why small towns and rural markets can be a strength, not a limitation, and why relationship-based retail still wins. We talk community giving like Stuff The Trucks food drives, and the advocacy side through APRO, TRIB, and the Kansas Rental Dealers Association, including what it means to lead and give back in a misunderstood industry.

If you want more Legends conversations like this, subscribe, share this with another rent-to-own operator, and leave a review so more people can find the show.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What if a $10-a-week TV could spark a company built on trust? We sit down with industry legend Gary to unpack how Showplace grew from a two-paragraph agreement on a legal pad to a respected rent-to-own brand known for clear buyouts, smart growth, and customer-first service. From early days of index cards and recipe boxes to Ideal, HiTouch, and VersaRent, Gary explains the systems and mindsets that kept operations nimble and transparent.

We explore the turning points that defined the path: adding appliances and furniture without overextending, learning from mentors who pushed better ideas, and doing the slow work of advocacy that helped lock fair practices into state law. When lenders blacklisted rent-to-own in the ’90s, Gary didn’t fold. He rallied the team, educated a local banker, and rebuilt a flexible credit line—proof that relationships can save a business when markets panic. Along the way, Showplace doubled down on what set it apart: every receipt lists the early purchase option, making ownership a feature, not a footnote. That simple promise became a magnet for loyal customers.

You’ll also hear the product stories few saw coming, like riding mowers and zero-turns thriving in rural markets, plus seasonal hold programs that convert churn into steady buyouts. The throughline is clear: lead with transparency, manage debt with humility, and build culture around long-term wins. Whether you’re new to RTO or scaling a regional brand, these lessons on cash discipline, software evolution, customer care, and advocacy will sharpen your playbook. If this conversation resonates, follow the show, share it with a colleague who needs a refresh, and leave a quick review so more people can find stories that move the industry forward.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A legend’s journey rarely starts with a grand plan. Trooper Earl just needed a job, stumbled into ColorTyme, and within two years was opening stores, learning fast, and confronting the realities of scale without modern systems. That sprint led to 16 locations, a gutsy bank-backed buyout, and a pivotal moment when financing partners pulled back. Instead of folding, he reset—and that’s where the real story begins.

We walk through how Premier Rental Purchase took shape around a simple, powerful idea: build a franchise for operators, not just investors. Trooper breaks down how he helps managers become owners with bank-ready projections, SBA 7(a) funding, and a clear picture of real costs—roughly $650K for a well-capitalized store, a 5–6K sq ft footprint, and rent targets aligned to projected revenue. He shares why reading financial statements beats watching a bank balance, how to spot trouble in trends, and what it takes to keep rent factors and labor in check.

The 2008 financial crisis tested everything. Premier exited side bets in wheels and cash services and doubled down on its core. That crucible led to Premier University—a rigorous, multi-year training build that standardized front-line execution, leadership practices, and warehouse management. Add a live national training center perched above a once-bankrupt Texas store and a corporate house where late-night conversations flip the switch from “know it” to “own it,” and you get a culture that changes businesses from the inside out.

We also explore Premier’s data backbone and mobile app strategy. By centralizing SQL-based data and syncing real-time inventory, pricing, loyalty, service, and delivery tracking, Premier meets customers where they are—on their phones—without losing the personal touch that anchors rent-to-own. Trooper’s candid on leadership transition, why he still mentors and funds deals, and how “JFO—just figure it out” became a way of life.

Curious how to go from operator to owner, survive a credit squeeze, and build a system that lasts? Hit play, then share your biggest takeaway. If this story resonates, subscribe, leave a review, and pass it to someone who’s ready to build.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Paul Adamson from Clover joins Pete Shau to explain what “certified refurbished” really means—and why it matters for rent-to-own dealers. They break down how returned products move through the reverse supply chain, what Clover’s testing and grading process looks like, where the biggest savings typically show up, and how the new partnership with L2 is designed to simplify ordering and support. They also cover smart product categories to lean into (and a few to avoid), plus how dealer feedback can strengthen quality and reliability over time.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What does it take to go from a delivery truck to the corner office without losing the human touch that built the business? We sit down with Michael Bennett, CEO of Buddy’s Home Furnishings and three-time APRO president, to unpack the playbook he’s refined across Rent-A-Center, Rentway, and Aaron’s: start with people, sharpen systems, and win the last mile with speed and service.

Michael shares how a childhood of hustles and a stint in healthcare collections shaped his approach to empathy, accountability, and durable cash flow. He breaks down the Rent-A-Center and Renter’s Choice years—why simple, focused assortments and clear strategy scale—and explains how to blend entrepreneurial judgment with standardized process. We follow him into a rough region at Rentway, where bottom-quartile performance flipped by whiteboarding pain points, inviting frontline ideas, and proving that titles don’t fix stores—teams do.

From there, we dig into the Aaron’s franchise turnaround: immersive training, alignment to corporate purchasing and marketing, and the power of consistent execution to lift store averages past six figures. Michael is candid about setbacks, the Great Recession, and a forced year on the sidelines that clarified his north star: never justify and blame, write the hard truths down, and recruit ideas from every seat. Finally, we look ahead. He sees virtual rent-to-own and buy now pay later expanding awareness, while brick-and-mortar keeps its moat with white-glove delivery, rapid approvals, and human relationships. Expect consolidation, tighter household budgets, and a premium on technology that shortens the path from click to couch.

If you care about operational leadership, culture, and growth in rent-to-own, retail, or consumer finance, this conversation delivers hard-won tactics and clear direction. Subscribe, share with a teammate who owns the last mile, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway so we can keep raising the bar.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What happens when an industry’s past isn’t properly recorded online? It gets rewritten by shallow links, old studies, and algorithms that don’t know better. We sat down with APRO CEO Charles Smitherman and WoW Brands CEO/CTO Ryan Krass to share why we built a definitive, 400-page history of rent-to-own—and why publishing it widely is essential for policy makers, journalists, customers, and the AI systems shaping tomorrow’s answers.

We trace RTO’s lineage from Victorian hire purchase and the Singer sewing machine to modern living rooms and checkout flows, showing how access and use value have always driven demand. Charles opens the archives—APRO minutes, magazines, research—and explains the advocacy playbook that led to 47 state statutes. Ryan breaks down the tech reality: AI is a prediction engine that repeats whatever dominates the dataset. If credible sources don’t exist, weak narratives win. Our fix is simple but hard—collect primary sources, cite everything, and put it everywhere. The legends series becomes the heartbeat, preserving first-person accounts from pioneers who fought regulatory headwinds, scaled stores, and kept communities supplied through good times and crises.

We also challenge myths with data, including high customer satisfaction findings that contradict familiar stigma. This isn’t a profit play; royalties fund APRO scholarships to support families in the industry. By releasing the book online and distributing free copies, we make the record discoverable across search and future AI models. The deeper takeaway is human: RTO is about dignity, flexibility, and the right to return—meeting people where they are so they can sleep, work, and live well.

If you care about consumer access, policy clarity, and how AI learns our story, this conversation will change how you see rent-to-own and the information ecosystem around it. Subscribe, share with a colleague, and tell us what myth you want us to tackle next.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What does it take to turn a scattered, misunderstood trade into a recognized industry with real rules, clear disclosures, and political staying power? We sit down with Ed Wynn, APRO’s longtime legal counsel, to trace rent-to-own’s rise from yellow-pages meetups to model legislation and major wins in statehouses across the country. Ed walks us through the early federal gambit that sailed through the Senate but died in the House, and the pivotal realization that a state-by-state strategy was the only practical path forward.

You’ll hear how Michigan’s late‑1983 breakthrough set the tone with price controls tied to early purchase options, and how APRO leveraged the Council on State Governments’ 1987 model law to bring coherence to a patchwork of statutes. Ed breaks down the toughest battlegrounds—Wisconsin’s stalemate, Minnesota’s costly dual‑regulation trap, New Jersey’s class action hammer—and why California took a decade to land. He also explains North Carolina’s unusual balloon purchase rule and the lessons it taught the industry about precision and compliance.

Beyond the politics, we explore the cultural shift that made rent-to-own sustainable: transparency over secrecy. APRO pushed for honest, readable agreements, total cost visibility, and modern practices—even when some dealers feared customers would walk away. Ed recalls the 1998 FTC study that became an unexpected asset, the careful positioning during Dodd‑Frank that protected short‑term rentals from CFPB reach, and the rise and fade of state associations once laws were on the books. We close with a look at APRO’s evolving mission under forward‑looking leadership: staying vigilant, improving standards, and using new tools—yes, AI included—to create value well beyond legislative defense.

If you care about how industries legitimize, scale, and earn trust, this story delivers strategy, scars, and a clear blueprint. Subscribe, share with a colleague who loves policy and business history, and leave a review with your biggest question for Ed—we may feature it in a future episode.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A budget shortfall, a hostile hearing, and a tax threat big enough to sink an industry—this conversation with APRO legend Bill Keese reveals how Rent-To-Own survived and matured. We open with Bill’s unlikely path from state legislator to executive director and move straight into the fiscal triage that rebuilt APRO’s foundation: cutting costs, rethinking staff, and—crucially—resetting dues so the largest chains paid their share. That quiet, early fix powered a bold advocacy playbook when the IRS and Congress turned up the heat.

Bill walks us through the two-track strategy that changed everything: choosing a dealer with pristine records to fight in tax court while running a coordinated push for legislative clarity. The team hired a firm anchored by the former chief judge of the U.S. Tax Court and mobilized dealers for high-impact, face-to-face meetings on the Hill. The payoff was decisive—a Revenue Procedure confirming lease treatment for tax purposes, preserving cash flow, jobs, and customer access. Alongside policy, we dig into perception: how a single comment about an “image problem” sparked a PR overhaul, national-quality ads for small dealers, and smarter media choices that stopped bad narratives before they spread.

From there, we map the steady climb of state RTO laws, the tension between federal uniformity and local control, and the realities of consolidation—keeping one-store operators and national chains equally invested in the association’s mission. Bill shares candid stories about congressional skirmishes, unlikely allies, and the grassroots stamina that still anchors the industry. He closes with field-tested advice for owners and operators: reinvent every five years, stay visible in your community, and treat advocacy like essential maintenance. Subscribe, share this episode with a colleague, and leave a review with the one lesson you’ll act on this quarter.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A chance glance at a rent-to-own storefront changed everything. We sit down with industry legend Bill French to unpack five decades of progress: from selling RCA TVs to shaping vendor programs, joining APRO’s earliest meetings, and helping O’Rourke scale into a top RTO supplier. Bill walks us through the early hurdles—manufacturers confused about ownership, banks wary of the model, and warranty battles that forced creative solutions like starting coverage at first rental. Those frictions ultimately forged a clearer playbook and a more resilient industry.

We dig into why APRO became essential: not as a lobby for favors, but as a consistent educator of lawmakers and staff who often don’t know how rent-to-own works. Bill explains why state statutes beat sweeping federal rules, and how buying groups like TRIB gave small dealers big leverage with pricing, rebates, and programs. He shares how vendor advisory committees improved conventions and how listening to dealers led O’Rourke to tailor channel-specific assortments, support, and forecasting that actually fit store realities.

Then the product story takes center stage. RTO has leapt from 19-inch black-and-white TVs to 100-inch screens, Family Hub fridges, and a surge in gaming towers and consoles that deliver standout keep rates. Bill breaks down how global supply chains changed planning, why wants can outperform needs, and how trust-based relationships—clear commitments, honest help, and mutual wins—turn vendors into partners and customers into loyal renters. If you care about the future of rent-to-own, this is a masterclass in advocacy, assortment, and the human side of growth.

If this conversation resonated, subscribe, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review—what trend do you think will define RTO next year?

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Strong teams don’t happen by accident—they’re built by leaders who put people first and still demand performance. We sit down with regional leader Sean Knupp to unpack the playbook behind consistent growth in rent-to-own: GMs who operate like owners, rolling P&Ls that drive clear choices, and a culture that treats customers and employees like family. Sean shares how early work ethic and years of union leadership shaped his approach to conflict, fairness, and accountability, and why embracing smart risk beat his old obsession with perfect collections.

We dig into the weekly rhythm that keeps stores moving: Monday lead sprints from the weekend’s online traffic, daily targets for sales and accounts, and bite-size course corrections that protect compounding revenue. Sean explains how to coach a team through tough months—especially January—by holding the line rather than burning bridges, and how to create buy-in by letting managers build the plan. Ethics stay non-negotiable, but flexibility and trust power execution.

The conversation also tackles the digital shift defining modern RTO. Customers shop from the couch and expect Amazon-speed delivery, so Sean widened sourcing to 24–48 hours and leaned into e-signatures, automation, and frictionless payments. He calls it a classic “who moved my cheese” moment: adapt or get left behind. Along the way, we talk servant leadership, the value of dissenting voices, and the constant work of developing your replacement so the team scales with you.

If you lead a store or a region—or want to—this is your field guide to people-first performance, smarter risk, and operational cadence that wins. Listen, share with your team, and tell us: what’s one leadership habit you’ll change this week? And if you enjoy the show, subscribe, leave a review, and pass it on to a fellow operator who needs a spark.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A small, scrappy industry took on courts, Congress, and headlines—and won. Chris Korst, longtime Rent-A-Center executive and counsel, joins us to unpack how rent-to-own went from “wild west” storefronts to a regulated, transparent option for millions of consumers who need flexibility without credit.

We retrace the late-80s strategy that changed everything: build balanced model legislation, center the right to terminate and return, and carry that framework state by state with local merchants at the mic. With APRO’s support and the Council of State Governments’ Suggested State Legislation as a force multiplier, the coalition moved from four state laws to roughly forty-five by the late 90s. Chris shares the scars and the wins—Pennsylvania’s shutdown, Minnesota and Wisconsin deadlocks, and the Wall Street Journal blowback—and how the industry’s answer was better disclosures, respectful collections, and real compliance training. Along the way, we dig into the federal fight to keep RTO out of Truth in Lending, the tax code victory that affirmed depreciation, and the later carve-out that kept the CFPB from redefining the model.

Fast forward to today: buy now, pay later and virtual leasing are reshaping expectations at checkout. Chris explains why innovation must not obscure the core safeguard that persuaded policymakers decades ago—the true right to terminate. When lease-like products erase the off-ramp, regulators see credit by another name, risking overreach that harms consumers and compliant operators alike. We close with pragmatic advice for APRO members and RDAs: collaborate relentlessly, lead with customer care, bring satisfied customers to testify, and keep the narrative grounded in transparency and choice.

If this deep dive gave you a new lens on rent-to-own, share it with a colleague, subscribe for more Legends conversations, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway. Your feedback helps more industry pros find the show.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Law can feel abstract until it touches a living room. We sit down with Brad, former general counsel turned vendor advocate, to unpack how rent-to-own won its legal identity as a lease—not credit—and why that nuance still shapes access to appliances, furniture, and electronics across America. From class actions to bankruptcy fights, he walks us through the “obligation” test that swayed courts, the model legislation that spread to 47 states, and the trench-level tactics that moved skeptical lawmakers with real stories from customers and even music dealers.

The tour hits the hot spots: Minnesota’s chilling court ruling despite a statute, Wisconsin’s near‑victory blocked at the governor’s desk, and California’s hard compromises that traded flexibility for formal recognition. We talk candidly about why stricter rules can shrink access without lowering costs, how Better Business Bureau data contradicted old narratives, and why a happy renter is the best regulator. Brad credits APRO and strong state associations for decades of steady, unglamorous work—relationship‑building, code‑of‑conduct norms, and ongoing education in D.C.—that kept the industry stable and consumers informed.

Switching to the vendor view, Brad details how Benefit Marketing Solutions strengthens the safety net: unemployment payment waivers, restoration after fire or theft, accidental damage coverage, and telemedicine that saves time and money. These benefits protect families when life hits hard and help stores reduce churn by preserving progress toward ownership. The throughline is clear: when statutes are clear, service is ethical, and vendors add real protections, rent‑to‑own delivers what it promises—flexibility, transparency, and practical access. If this conversation sparked new questions or shifted your view, share it with a colleague, subscribe for more candid industry stories, and leave a review to tell us what you want next.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

In this special episode of The RTO Show, Pete Shau welcomes Ray Muncy of Buddies Home Furnishings and Dave Deep, founder of Wake for Warriors. Together, they explore how a shared love of water and community turned into a nationwide movement supporting veterans through adaptive water sports. Hear inspiring stories, learn about Wake for Warriors' life-changing events, and find out how business leaders and volunteers can get involved.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A 24-year-old franchisee walks into a brand-new industry and ends up helping to save it. That’s the arc of Kevin Quinn, who went from learning how to rent a $499 VCR to leading APRO through a political and tax storm that could have erased rent-to-own from the map.

We trace Kevin’s start in 1982, the scrappy early days of rack stereos and weekly payments, and the hard truths about why banks and premium vendors kept their distance. He shares the operational and cultural shift he learned from APRO mentors—structure, standards, and a shared philosophy—and how a small group of franchisees formed Quality Rentals, cross‑guaranteeing each other to build credibility and buying power. The story accelerates when Kevin steps into APRO leadership just as Chairman Henry B. Gonzalez launches hearings against RTO and the IRS tries to reclassify the model as a disguised credit sale. That change would have crippled cash flow and buried operators.

Behind the scenes, we unpack the strategy: a three-front campaign across public relations, federal lobbying, and tax litigation with heavyweight counsel. You’ll hear how dealer funding, customer petitions, and smart allies in Congress led to a pivotal IRS ruling recognizing RTO as a lease with depreciation, later improved to a three-year schedule. Those wins didn’t just quiet critics—they unlocked vendor relationships, steadied lenders, and legitimized rent-to-own as a consumer access model. Along the way, Kevin reflects on the role of his wife, the friendships forged under pressure, and the pride of seeing his daughters revive an RR wheel-and-tire store and earn Women of the Year honors.

If you care about how industries are built—through policy, persistence, and people—this story delivers the blueprint. Subscribe, share this episode with a colleague who loves retail history or public policy, and leave a review with the one lesson you think today’s operators can’t afford to ignore.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Two stores, a fire that melted the backups, and a decision that transformed an operator into a multi-state force: keep the people, codify the playbook, and own the ground you stand on. We sit down with Larry Carrico of Rent One to unpack how acquisitions, training, and real estate leverage shaped four decades of growth without going public.

Larry explains why he buys underperforming locations and keeps local teams, then turns culture into a system. From Zig Ziglar’s “train the trainer” to DISC assessments and data-driven coaching, he shows how to match talent to roles, reward frontline excellence with driver rodeos, and make service the brand. He also reframes the RTO offer—don’t sell appliances and furniture, sell cold milk, clean clothes, and a great night’s sleep. That mindset powers sales, retention, and even legislative advocacy.

We dig into the hardest chapter: a devastating store fire that destroyed data and forced a paper-by-paper rebuild. Out of that crisis came a real estate strategy—secure options to buy, then build equity that funds expansion and remodels across eight states. Larry also shares why he stayed private: fewer compliance constraints, more room to invest in coworker-centric culture, and faster moves on programs that matter.

Looking forward, Larry is chasing the next generation of customers with gaming. Partnering with influencer networks, he’s structuring good-better-best PC offerings that speak to both men and women—because 45% of gamers are women—and positioning RTO’s advantage around service and zero-hiccup coverage that fintech copycats can’t match. He closes with advice for new operators: grow at the speed of your bench, buy property when you can, and lead with outcomes, not objects. And then a reminder worth writing down—work hard, but take time to smell the roses.

If this conversation sparked ideas, follow and share the show, leave a review, and tell us: what’s the next product category RTO should add?

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Health benefits shouldn’t feel like a second job. We sat down with Marshall Darr, CEO of StretchDollar, to unpack a simpler model for small teams: employers set a monthly budget and employees pick and own the plans that fit their lives. Instead of wrestling with group plans built for big HR departments, you move funding to the individual ACA market where coverage is guaranteed, networks are local, and the choices actually match real needs.

Marshall explains why small-group plans have become so pricey—healthy companies leaving the risk pool, fewer carriers in the space—and how ICHRA (Individual Coverage HRA) flips the script. The result is practical: a team in different cities can each choose the right plan from carriers like Blue Cross, Aetna, or Kaiser while the owner controls cost with pre-tax dollars. With licensed brokers acting as fiduciaries, employees aren’t left to fend for themselves; they get clear, human guidance to avoid pitfalls like ultra-high deductibles or uncovered medications.

We share tangible wins, including a type 1 diabetic whose weekly insulin costs dropped from $1,300 out of pocket to a $30 copay by switching to an individual plan that actually covered her meds. We also dig into the nuts and bolts—how setup takes minutes, why admin time can shrink by 100 hours a year, and when it makes sense to stick with a good group renewal. If you’re growing toward 50 employees, we cover options for transitioning without losing momentum.

If you’re a one to fifty-employee business in the rent-to-own world or beyond, and you’ve felt stuck between “too expensive” and “not enough,” this conversation offers a clear path forward: cash, choice, and coverage that works. Subscribe, share with a fellow owner, and leave a review to help more small teams find a better way to do benefits.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A nickname born from a Southern Baptist speaking style and a talent for rallying a room might sound like a fun story, but “The Reverend of RTO” is really about substance: value, trust, and relentless follow-through. Larry Sutton joins us to chart an uncommon path from family retail roots to building Champion on a 50-50 handshake, navigating funding shocks when Berg-Warner exited the space, and ultimately selling at a premium before discovering that retirement by golf isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

What pulled him back was the same customer he never stopped rooting for. A tip about rent-to-own “tires” led him to discover an exploding demand for custom wheels—and a bigger mission hiding in plain sight: safer commutes, reliable family travel, and dignity at the point of sale. Larry launched Rent-N-Roll in Tampa and watched lines form. Then came the pivotal insight: the brand shouted “rims,” so tire buyers never walked in. A franchisee’s experiment separating tires from wheels unlocked demand and sparked a smart rebrand to RNR Tire Express—stores that look and feel like top-tier retail, with the flexibility of lease-to-own.

We dig into the operational backbone that makes the value real: lifetime rotation and balance, nitrogen to stabilize pressure and extend tread life, and deep training through TIA and ASE certifications. Larry explains why bringing alignments in-house wasn’t just a margin play, but a safety commitment. He shares the leadership rules that scale—hire people smarter than you, love hard work, and lead from the front—and why the rent-to-own community’s culture of sharing is a competitive advantage most industries don’t understand.

If you care about customer value, brand identity, and finding the right niche at the right time, this story delivers a practical blueprint. Subscribe, share with a builder in your life, and leave a review with the one lesson you’re taking into your next pivot.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Want customers to stop scrolling and start walking into your store? We sat down with Stephen Stough of EssToo Creative, a veteran-turned-creative director who blends military-grade problem solving with story-led marketing that actually moves the needle for rent-to-own. From the origin of EssToo to the infamous “two guys in a bed” hook, we break down what makes a promo memorable, how to match concepts to real store talent, and why commitment on camera beats fancy gear every time.

Stephen shares a battle-tested framework for making videos on any budget. Audio is king, lighting is simple but crucial, and a tight script with a clear purpose will outperform long rambling reads. We talk through casting choices, embracing authentic flubs, and building a content library that balances humor, heart, and seasonal offers. You’ll hear how a few early RTO videos found serious traction, why “be brief, be brilliant, be gone” still works, and how to turn a scroll-stopping visual into a clean, compelling call to action.

If your team is DIY-ing with phones, you’ll get practical tips: invest in a lav mic from Rode or DJI, diffuse your lights, remove background clutter, and film at least three takes. If you’re ready to level up, consider buying creative time to map a month of concepts your staff can execute in-house. We also cover why cutting marketing and training is the fastest way to shrink foot traffic, and how small, consistent investments can make your store the standout brand when budgets are tight.

Subscribe for more creative playbooks tailored to rent-to-own, share this with a teammate who appears in your videos, and leave a review with your best hook that stopped the scroll. Your next great ad might be one brave idea and three clean takes away.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A legend in rent-to-own doesn’t happen by accident. John Blair takes us from a teenage crossroads to the Marines to the front lines of building TRIB into a credible, member-led powerhouse. His story is packed with hard-won tactics and clear principles: keep it simple, reward commitment, and use unity as leverage. We dive into the early days—17 members, tiny shows, skeptical vendors—and how committees, transparent programs, and consistent follow-through built trust that lasted.

John breaks down the rebate era with unflinching clarity. When a vendor tried to withhold a rebate after the group barely missed a target, TRIB responded with quiet solidarity, walking past the booth as one—and the deal came back. He reveals how anticipating member volume unlocked better tiers with Ashley and why not every product belongs in RTO. The formula that worked then still works now: tight assortments, honest pricing, and customer-first bundles that move. From big CRTs and boomboxes to flat screens and laptops, he maps the technology shifts that changed demand and why laptops became the biggest catalyst for growth.

We also explore how TRIB and APRIL evolved from tension to alignment, giving dealers both purchasing power and a policy backbone in Washington. John’s journey after TRIB—jewelry at its peak, tax services built for RTO seasonality, then a harrowing health battle—adds perspective and gratitude. Through it all, the theme is steady: camaraderie isn’t just culture; it’s strategy. If you care about vendor relationships, rebates that truly pay, and building a stronger rent-to-own business, this conversation is a masterclass straight from someone who helped shape the playbook.

Enjoyed the episode? Follow the show, share it with your team, and leave a quick review with your biggest takeaway. Your support helps more RTO pros find these stories and put them to work.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A small team launched six stores in a month, refused bargain-bin products, and built a public company that outperformed the category—by betting everything on culture, quality, and customer dignity. Pete sits down with industry legend Wayland Russell to unpack how Rainbow Rentals rewired supply chains, pioneered bundled PCs with Dell, and turned account management into a customer success engine long before that term existed.

We get into the hard decisions behind “more, better, different”: walking High Point for years until a manufacturer agreed to weekly, multi-location delivery; insisting on midline-and-up TVs and appliances; and designing software that enabled seamless vendor ordering and just-in-time fulfillment. Wayland explains why computers—dismissed by competitors as “doorstops”—became a double-digit revenue stream, and how intuitive, icon-based bundles helped families cross the digital divide. His philosophy is clear: be the advantage to the disadvantaged, and let operational excellence make premium accessible.

There’s grit here too: brutal early financing, loans called twice, and the courage to walk away from payday lending margins that clashed with core values. We explore APRO’s pivotal advocacy, the ethics of pricing versus credit-card debt, and the decision to sell while rewarding associates and investing in the community. Along the way, Wayland shares candid leadership lessons—hire for passion, make everyone a partner, celebrate managers on the front line, and act like the conductor who helps others shine.

If you care about building durable culture, rethinking logistics, and serving customers with respect, this story will stay with you. Listen, share with a colleague, and leave a review telling us the boldest idea you’re taking into your business.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A handful of dealers pooled their leverage in 1983 and changed rent-to-own forever. That spark became TRIB, a buying group that now unites 198 member companies and negotiates real-world programs with the brands that power our showrooms. We sit down with executive director Dennis Shields to explore how the group won better warranties, moved policy start dates to first rental, and built distributor partnerships that keep product flowing when direct channels won’t.

Dennis walks us through the shifts that matter: why appliance warranties became a defining battleground, how TVs evolved from fragile tubes to reliable 4K panels that flipped service economics, and where smartphones quietly reset consumer expectations for everything from fridges to washers. We break down the post-pandemic container puzzle—unreliable lead times, futures pricing, and planning risk—and why many operators now pay a bit more to buy through distributors for speed and certainty. We also dig into the rise of gaming PCs, where spec-savvy consumers demand true performance and stores need vendors who can deliver GPUs, fast storage, and high-refresh displays on schedule.

Along the way, Dennis shares the habits that compound: pick vendors intentionally, communicate early, and guard your credit like an asset because it guards you back. We talk Meeting of the Minds, how small-room idea swaps grew into a flagship event, and why more vendors now show up in DC to advocate for the industry that fuels their own growth. If you’re building a smarter buying strategy, refining vendor relationships, or navigating the leap from store management to ownership, this conversation maps the playbook—and the pitfalls—of modern RTO.

Enjoyed the conversation? Follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review so more RTO pros can find it. Got questions for TRIB or ideas for part two? Email Pete at the RTO Show Podcast.com and join the conversation.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What happens when a second-generation leader takes the mic and the wheel? We sit with Ace Rent to Own COO Ben Leach to unpack how a family legacy becomes a modern operating system built on people, service, and smart use of technology. Ben shares how growing up in the stores, spending a decade in software and high-growth environments, and returning with fresh eyes shaped his approach: empower employees, obsess over client outcomes, and let data quietly guide the path.

We dig into the heart of rent-to-own—why it’s more than payments and products. Ben explains the real advantage: free delivery, flexible swaps, step-down options during tough times, and hands-on service that keeps essentials in homes when life hits hard. He talks through the changing customer journey as foot traffic fades and online leads rise, and how Ace meets clients where they are with responsive phone, text, and digital agreements. The result is a faster, smarter sales process that still feels like white-glove care.

Holiday strategy takes center stage with a meaningful pivot: seven months same-as-cash all November and a true Black Friday hook—a 65-inch TV priced below Amazon’s sale, Friday and Saturday only. Ben shares why loss leaders can create long-term value, how stores win with outbound calls and flexible down payments, and why special ordering toys or unique items helps families stretch budgets. We also get an inside look at Ace’s community impact and employee traditions—from local sponsorships and a holiday wish list to a Christmas party complete with The Price Is Right and tenure gifts employees actually choose.

If you care about leadership, customer experience, and making retail work in a mobile, on-demand world, this conversation delivers practical ideas and a shot of heart. Subscribe, share with a teammate, and tell us: what’s one people-first change you’ll make this season?

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A family video store with 400 movies. A heavy VCR lugged home for the weekend. An $800 camcorder bought on a personal credit card so a loyal customer wouldn’t be let down. That’s where Dan Fisher’s rent-to-own story begins—and how a small experiment grew into a durable, customer-first brand with a culture people talk about.

We walk through the inflection points that define real growth: discovering APRO after years of improvising, moving from Sam’s Club buys to vendor partnerships like GE Appliances, and opening the first standalone rent-to-own store that proved the model. Dan is candid about the messy parts too—how a fourth location in a tough market stretched his capacity, how a rapid jump to thirteen stores exposed leadership gaps, and why a two-day off-site in 2017 became the moment everything clicked. The takeaway is practical: choose systems that let you lead, build habits that keep plans alive, and return to the family values that made customers trust you.

We also unpack the rent-to-own model in plain language for skeptics and supporters alike. Flexibility matters: cancel anytime, no pickup fees, free delivery and setup, repairs covered, and lifetime reinstatement that honors every payment. That’s why multigenerational customers keep coming back. Dan’s mentors—industry mainstays like Shannon Strunk, Gary Ferriman, Mike Tissott, and Lyn Leach—helped him step into advocacy, where he found that most offices simply need the facts. When people hear how RTO expands access with dignity and options, the conversation changes.

If you care about building a resilient business, leading through growing pains, and serving customers with respect, this story delivers the playbook—and the heart behind it. Subscribe, share with a teammate who needs a nudge, and leave a review telling us your biggest leadership turning point.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A customer says, “I’ll never own the laundromat,” and everything changes. That moment turned rent-to-own from a product on a shelf into a service with purpose for Shannon and Cynthia Baber Strunk—two industry legends who built, defended, and evolved RTO over four decades. We trace their path from Firestone showrooms to 50 stores, the hard lessons of a tire-and-wheel experiment, and the surprise breakthrough of early cell phones, starting with bag phones in the 90s.

We open up about the years when regulation threatened the model and how advocacy became the strategy. Shannon and Cynthia helped shape state laws, led within APRO, and visited Washington more than twenty times to educate lawmakers on how the RTO transaction actually works and why constituents choose it. You’ll hear candid insights on the state-vs-federal balance, why complacency is dangerous, and what message resonates in today’s DC: clear explanation over alarm, customer outcomes over abstractions.

Behind the scenes, technology was the quiet multiplier. Moving from posting cards to modern software transformed reporting, policy decisions, and forecasting. That data discipline now powers their RNR Tire Express focus, where six-month same-as-cash and purchase options require both operational savvy and regulatory awareness. They also share the blueprint for succession done right: start your next leaders at the bottom, insist on real accountability, and set bold forecasts you actually believe your people can hit.

If you care about rent-to-own growth, small-market strategy, industry advocacy, or succession planning, this story is a masterclass in building something durable without losing the customer-first soul. Subscribe, share with a colleague who needs the spark, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway—what should RTO teach lawmakers next?

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A family credit line, a few sturdy appliances, and a belief that people deserve dignity—that’s where our conversation with Kathy Windsor begins. From Texas beginnings to a Missouri legacy, we trace how National TV Sales and Rental grew on discipline, low collections, and vendor trust rather than bank debt or shortcuts.

Kathy takes us inside the early days of rent-to-own when financing was scarce and selection was thin—three living room SKUs, coil stoves, and refrigerators you could count on. Then came the VCR boom, a moment that reshaped demand and taught the team to keep scanning for the next category that could transform the floor. We talk about advocacy and the day policy nearly sank the industry: when the IRS pushed three-year depreciation on products that typically turned in 18 months. Mark Windsor’s direct work with lawmakers helped protect a business model and countless livelihoods, a reminder that relationships and straight talk still move mountains.

The hardest chapter hits like a siren: a 13-alarm fire leveled their warehouse the night before a managers’ meeting, wiping out premium inventory. What saved them? Years of paying vendors on time and treating every partner like a stakeholder. Whirlpool and furniture suppliers answered with emergency deliveries, warehouse pricing, and generous dating that kept stores open and teams working. Kathy also shares the human side: a collections culture rooted in fairness, a habit of anonymous giving, and Operation Fresh Start, which furnishes homes for families starting over. Three generations of customers later, loyalty looks like a client choosing to buy a Nintendo through them instead of a big-box store—because loyalty earned the sale.

We round out with succession and purpose. Aaron’s journey from routes to president modernized culture while guarding the Windsor non-negotiables: low charge-offs, quality goods, and steady growth. Kathy’s next act—farm-to-table beef—carries the same rigor: non-GMO feed, no antibiotics or growth hormones, and direct sales that reward trust. We look ahead to real headwinds—tariffs, inflation, shifting labor expectations—and explain why staying debt-light, vendor-connected, and essential-first will win the next decade.

If this story sparked ideas or gave you courage to lead with conviction, subscribe, share with a friend who needs it, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway. Then email your questions to Pete@theRTOShow Podcast.com and we’ll keep the conversation going.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A flip chart, a promise to a father, and a tiny Omaha storefront lit the fuse for a 24-store rent-to-own legacy grounded in dignity and service. We sit down with industry legend Lyn Leach to unpack how a consumer-first mindset—friendly collections, honest agreements, and real return options—can turn a risky startup into a reliable community anchor. From vacuum tubes and rooftop antennas to Atari consoles, VCRs, and modern gaming rigs, this story tracks how products evolved while one mission stayed constant: improve quality of life and help customers reach ownership.

Lyn takes us behind the scenes of vendor battles and breakthrough moments—when a few believers extended those first fragile credit lines and proved relationships still power retail. He shares the mentors who simplified collections, the nuts-and-bolts of compliance that APRO made accessible, and the role of loss damage waivers in protecting both customers and stores. We also dig into policy trenches: statehouse wins, near-miss federal legislation, and why inviting lawmakers into stores flips the script on outdated stereotypes.

The conversation turns to today’s fault line: virtual rent-to-own models that advertise flexibility without physical service or true return paths. Lyn lays out how brick-and-mortar operators can compete by upgrading websites, tightening lead management, and creating unforgettable in-store events—from cultural celebrations to community food truck nights—that transform shopping into connection. If you care about customer trust, transparent pricing, and the future of rental-purchase, this is a masterclass in doing the right thing, the right way, for the long haul.

Enjoyed the conversation? Follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help more people discover these stories. Your feedback shapes what we explore next.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Ready to turn views into visits? We sat down with Jeraud Norman of Jeraud Marketing to get brutally practical about what actually drives people into a rent‑to‑own store: short videos with real humans, clear invitations to try products in person, and simple tracking that proves ROI without fancy software. If you’ve been posting product photos and praying for reach, this conversation shows how to swap static for story and clicks for customers.

We start with the basics most teams skip: fix your audio with a cheap mic, add captions for silent scrollers, and use tight 20–30 second scripts so every second serves a purpose. Jeraud breaks down why personality beats polish, how jump cuts and angle changes keep attention, and why celebrating on‑time payers, deliveries, birthdays, and staff quirks builds trust faster than any discount. The goal isn’t viral; it’s familiar. When viewers walk in asking for the person from the video, closing gets easy.

We also tackle the “pay to play” reality on Facebook and how even $1 a day to your followers can keep your content visible. Jeraud shares real‑world spend patterns around $300 per store and explains why many sales won’t show up as leads but appear as walk‑ins—if you’re asking every visitor how they found you. Tie a simple check‑box sheet to agreement numbers and review gross sales later to see true returns. To speed creative, we outline AI prompts that generate fresh scripts, hooks, and even fun perspectives like a $10 bill or delivery truck telling the story.

If you sell what people sit on, touch, and test, your edge is your front door. Put faces on camera, invite folks to try the sofa, and make it easy for them to meet you by name. Want a jumpstart? Gerard offers a free 30‑second script: email jeraud@jeraudmarketing.com, or book at fastRTOdeliveries.com. If this helped, subscribe, share it with your team, and leave a quick review so more local dealers can turn social views into steady foot traffic.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What if your business is worth less (or more) than you think—because buyers don’t pay for sentiment, they pay for cash flow? We sit down with CPA Mike Helton and senior tax manager Alicia Holloway from RG & Co. to decode the “big, beautiful bill,” revive your understanding of EBITDA and multiples, and lay out a simple, disciplined operating system for a cash‑intensive RTO model.

We get practical fast. You’ll hear why 100% bonus depreciation (effective January 19, 2025) can be a gift or a trap depending on whether you fund inventory with cash or debt. We explain the interest limitation reset from EBIT to EBITDA and how that shift can unlock deductions for leveraged operators. There’s also a timely win for teams: an overtime premium exclusion that puts real money back in employees’ pockets. Along the way, Mike and Alicia translate the tax code into store reality—inventory that comes back, cost of goods through depreciation, and the constant need to reconcile cash and tie your POS to the balance sheet so the P&L can be trusted.

If you’re thinking about valuation, this is your blueprint. We walk through normalizing earnings, converting EBITDA to free cash flow, and how risk—customer stability, management depth, documentation, bankability—drives your multiple. You’ll learn what quality-of-earnings reviews test, why clean books raise price and speed deals, and how today’s buyer universe (private equity, family offices, operators) approaches RTO cash flows. For builders and new owners, we share the first tools to buy: a reliable POS, QuickBooks Online, and daily cash reconciliation. For everyone, we emphasize KPIs, margins, and a balanced buy/collect rhythm that keeps growth funded without starving cash.

Stick around for candid talk on advocacy with APRO and FRDA, the role vendors play in keeping the industry strong, and why RTO remains resilient through economic cycles. Subscribe, share this with your team, and leave a review with the one KPI you check every day—what would you like us to unpack next?

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A shy new hire walks into rent-to-own, gets labeled “the mute girl,” and ends up becoming a trusted salesperson customers ask for by name. That arc—uneasy beginnings to confident service—is the heartbeat of our conversation with Angelica Felix Damas, and it’s a powerful look at how mentorship, product fluency, and creativity can rewrite what sales success looks like in RTO.

We get honest about hiring myths and generational habits. Do you really need extroverts to sell? Angelica shows how knowledge-based selling, empathy, and simple rituals—like greeting customers by name and listening for what a family truly values—can outperform volume tactics. We dig into training that works for quieter reps: safe role-plays, product deep dives, and small wins that build momentum. She shares why trade shows like MRDA and RTO World changed her trajectory, from seeing modern vanities and smart TVs to capturing class notes, summarizing with AI, and teaching teammates what’s next.

We also explore how to make social media worth watching. Forget stale promos—lean into human, light humor and practical micro-demos that match mobile-first attention. Angelica breaks down how AI can help non-editors draft captions, trim clips, and turn learnings into posts your community actually uses. For owners and managers, we map a clear path: hire for drive and care, coach for product mastery, and build a creative culture that experiments in public. The result is stronger sales, better collections, and customers who feel seen.

If you’re rethinking how to spot potential, train for confidence, and turn your floor into a learning engine, you’ll walk away with concrete steps and renewed energy. Subscribe, share this with a manager who hires, and leave a review with the one thing you’ll try this week—we’ll feature our favorite takeaways on a future show.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

When high-performing employees become leaders without proper training, everyone suffers – the promoted employee, their team, and ultimately the customer experience. Will Jackson, Team Development Director at RNR Tire Express, knows this reality firsthand, having made the painful transition from what he describes as a "toxic" leader to someone dedicated to helping others avoid the same pitfalls.

In this candid conversation, Will reveals how his personal leadership failures became the foundation for RNR's innovative "Cleats to Clipboards" leadership development program. The metaphor perfectly captures the essential mindset shift required when moving from star player to effective coach – learning that your job is no longer to do the work yourself but to guide and develop others who do the work.

What sets RNR's approach apart is their proactive identification of leadership potential. Rather than waiting until positions need filling, they identify and train promising team members before they're thrust into management roles. This creates a leadership bench ready to step up when opportunities arise, dramatically reducing the turmoil of leadership transitions and improving business outcomes.

Will shares powerful insights about feedback (the "F-word" in leadership), the danger of echo chambers, and why authenticity trumps perfection. He openly discusses his continuing leadership journey with refreshing honesty that makes leadership principles accessible to everyone. Whether you're a seasoned RTO veteran or new to leadership, Will's story demonstrates how intentional leadership development creates stronger teams, better customer experiences, and sustainable business growth.

Ready to transform your approach to leadership development? This episode offers practical strategies for identifying, training, and supporting the next generation of leaders in your organization. The leadership principles shared apply across all roles in rent-to-own, not just management positions.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What separates successful business owners from those who struggle despite their technical expertise? John Preston tackles this question head-on in this eye-opening conversation with Pete Chow on the RTO Show, introducing his unconventional business guide "40 Flushes to Grow Your Business."

Preston shares a fundamental truth that many entrepreneurs aren't ready to hear: your skill level has surprisingly little correlation with business success. "A bad plumber who knows how to run a business is going to be much more successful than a great plumber who doesn't," he explains, challenging listeners to shift their focus from technical expertise to business acumen.

The conversation explores five critical metrics that determine business profitability: lead generation, conversion rate, frequency of use, revenue per transaction, and profit margin. Preston emphasizes that pursuing volume (more customers) rather than profitability is a common mistake that can sink a business as quickly as having too few customers. He provides practical frameworks for understanding which of these metrics needs attention in your specific business situation.

Perhaps most valuable is Preston's insight on separating personal finances from business finances—creating what he visualizes as a brick wall between two piggy banks. This separation not only leads to better business decisions but also provides emotional stability at home. "Your personal expenses should not dictate your business decisions," he warns, explaining how "lifestyle creep" during good times creates vulnerability when inevitable business fluctuations occur.

The discussion takes a surprising turn when Preston reveals that internal struggles—self-doubt, fear, and decision paralysis—often prove more challenging than external business obstacles. His simple experiment with random alarms throughout the workday reveals how much time is spent thinking about work rather than doing productive work that moves the business forward.

Ready to transform your approach to business? Visit 40flushes.com to get Preston's book, or check out his free course on handling customer objections at ihateobjectionscom. Subscribe to the RTO Show for more insights that will help you keep collections low and sales high.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What happens when a data analytics expert decides the rent-to-own industry deserves better software? You get Revo POS—a ground-breaking point-of-sale system that's completely reimagining how RTO businesses operate.

From the moment you experience Revo's interface, you know it's different. While traditional RTO software cobbles together multiple disconnected systems, Revo seamlessly integrates everything: inventory management, customer data, quoting, digital agreements, even your phone system. The result? A streamlined operation where your team never needs calculators, paper forms disappear, and pre-leased inventory turns 30% faster.

Enos Barger, Revo partner and 30-year RTO veteran, takes us behind the curtain to reveal how this software emerged from R&R Tire Express's needs but was designed with flexibility for the entire industry. "We're not writing software for one way of operating," Barger explains. "For every pricing model, there are a hundred variants. We had to customize for that reality."

The system's innovations are striking: completely paperless transactions with digital signatures, a VoIP integration that identifies customers when they call, mobile capability for field operations, and an intelligent quoting system that prioritizes inventory you already own. Perhaps most impressive is how the system handles RTO's complexity while remaining intuitive for store staff.

Built on modern technology (SQL backend hosted in Azure), Revo's approach represents a fundamental shift in industry thinking. Rather than building everything in-house, they focus exclusively on exceptional RTO functionality while integrating with best-in-class partners for complementary services like texting and review management.

Ready to see what next-generation RTO technology looks like? Visit RevoPOS.com or contact Enos directly at enosbarger@revopos.com to learn how this software could transform your operation.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

When Charles Smitherman accidentally booked the wrong hotel for a Nebraska meeting, he stumbled upon what would become one of the most celebrated RTO World venues in recent memory. Omaha surprised everyone with its vibrant downtown, beautiful riverfront, and perfect convention facilities—proving that sometimes the best discoveries happen by chance.

This year's event brought together over 700 industry professionals and 100 vendors for what many described as the strongest educational lineup ever assembled. From standing-room-only sessions with industry veterans like Mike Tissot to fresh perspectives from outside speakers including former Nebraska football player Aaron Davis, the educational offerings created genuine value that participants could immediately apply to their businesses.

What makes the rent-to-own industry truly special—and what was on full display in Omaha—is the remarkable willingness of successful operators to share their knowledge openly. Unlike other financial sectors where competitive secrecy reigns, RTO professionals actively help each other succeed. This collaborative spirit creates an environment where, as one first-time attendee told Charles, "I came in feeling like I had a job, but after seeing all this, I know I have a career."

The conference featured several significant moments, including Dan Fisher's installation as APRO president and Charles Smitherman receiving the President's Award in a genuinely emotional surprise. Looking ahead, West Palm Beach will host RTO World 2026, while the crucial Legislative Conference in Washington DC (April 15-17) represents the industry's next major gathering. The Legislative Fellows program aims to bring 20 first-timers to experience advocacy firsthand—because if we don't tell our industry's story in Washington, someone else will.

Whether you're a veteran operator or considering your first industry event, these gatherings transform individual stores into a connected community with shared purpose. Check out the recorded sessions coming soon, and make plans to join us in DC this spring and West Palm Beach in 2026. Your business isn't just a job—it's part of an industry with deep roots and an exciting future.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What does it really take to succeed in the rent-to-own franchise world? Mitchell Lee, Senior Director of Franchise Sales at Buddy's Home Furnishings, pulls back the curtain on this profitable but often misunderstood business model.

The conversation begins with a candid look at current market conditions. "When you see trends in real estate, you typically see trends with franchising too," Mitchell explains, noting how the industry cycle follows a 2-3 year pattern from boom to valley and back again. With rising interest rates and economic uncertainty creating challenges, Mitchell reveals how Buddy's has pivoted to focus on acquisitions alongside new store development.

One fascinating revelation is the financial commitment required – between $500,000 to $800,000 all-in to launch a successful store – and what drives that investment. "We're not like Chick-fil-A where we open the door day one and have lines out the door," Mitchell candidly shares. Instead, the business builds gradually, with mature stores averaging $1 million in annual revenue and an impressive 20% net profit margin. For comparison, Mitchell notes food franchises often operate at just 8% margins.

The most compelling insights come when discussing what separates franchise success from failure. Mitchell reveals that 86% of Buddy's franchisees own multiple units (averaging 8-12 stores each), suggesting the model works extraordinarily well for those who master it. However, the approval process is rigorous – a committee of four executives scrutinizes each candidate's financial position and operational plans before granting franchise rights.

Perhaps most valuable is Mitchell's straightforward assessment of who should consider this business model. "If you want to be the quarterback of one team, go be the quarterback," he advises. "If you want to be the head coach or general manager, that's a different conversation." This distinction between hands-on operators versus multi-unit developers perfectly frames the strategic decision potential owners must make.

Ready to explore franchise opportunities? Connect with Mitchell at BuddysFranchising.com or call 813-321-0401 to learn if this business model might be your path to entrepreneurial success.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Step into the heart of the rent-to-own industry as we broadcast live from RTO World 2025, surrounded by the energy and innovation of the biggest gathering in the sector. This episode brings together key industry leaders to discuss the transformative forces reshaping how rent-to-own businesses operate, advocate, and market themselves.

Michael Wall, Senior Director of Corporate Affairs at Aaron's, shares how their recent acquisition by IQ Ventures has freed the company to focus on long-term growth rather than quarterly earnings. He explains how Aaron's modernized store design creates a more dignified shopping experience while highlighting the critical importance of industry advocacy at both federal and state levels.

The conversation takes a serious turn as Jeff Smith, President of the New York Rental Dealers Association, details the legislative battle unfolding in Albany. Proposed legislation threatens to fundamentally mischaracterize the RTO transaction by imposing APR caps on lease agreements. This fight exemplifies why industry advocacy matters – RTO provides essential access to household necessities for consumers with limited options, and misguided regulation could eliminate this vital service.

Marketing expert Andrew Hajduk delivers perhaps the most surprising insights, revealing how consumer "digital fatigue" is driving successful RTO operators back to community-based marketing strategies. While everyone rushes toward AI and digital solutions, hyperlocal approaches like door hangers, community involvement, and chamber of commerce participation are showing remarkable results. His observation that print marketing has a "slower decay rate" than digital ads challenges conventional wisdom about where marketing dollars should flow.

The thread connecting these diverse topics is adaptation – how an industry with deep roots is evolving to meet changing consumer needs while fighting misconceptions about its services. From corporate restructuring to legislative battles and marketing innovation, this episode captures how rent-to-own is positioning itself for future growth while staying true to its mission of providing flexible options for consumers.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What does it take to grow from a single tire store to a nationwide franchise with over 200 locations? For Adam Sutton, CEO of RNR Tire Express, the secret isn't complicated – it's about creating exceptional experiences for the people who matter most.

After returning to his family's business in 2017, Sutton brought fresh perspectives from his background in digital marketing and event technology. Rather than simply continuing what his father Larry Sutton (known as "The Reverend of RTO") had built, he focused on creating scalable systems while preserving the core values that made the business special.

Central to RNR's success is their "DX3" framework – a simple but powerful approach centered on delivering value-driven experiences across three dimensions: Culture, Customers, and Community. This isn't just corporate speak; it's implemented through dedicated training programs, leadership development, and consistent reinforcement throughout the organization.

"We have the honor and privilege of serving the hardest working, most deserving, and often most underappreciated people in America," Adam explains, expressing his deep commitment to the rent-to-own customer. This mindset drives everything from their innovative store designs to their community outreach initiatives like annual back-to-school backpack giveaways.

One particularly meaningful change Sutton champions is replacing the word "employee" with "team member" – a subtle distinction that reflects a profound shift in mindset. Employees are transactional and replaceable; team members are valued partners in a shared mission. This relationship-based approach has fueled RNR's remarkable growth while maintaining the family-business spirit that customers love.

Whether you're a seasoned RTO professional or just starting your entrepreneurial journey, Sutton's insights on leadership, franchising, and creating exceptional customer experiences offer valuable lessons that translate across any business. Listen now to discover how putting people first can drive extraordinary results.

Sponsored by: APRO, Wow Brands, JLR America, and FlyWheel RTO

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

The rent-to-own industry stands at a technological crossroads, and Atlog is blazing the trail with AI solutions custom-built for RTO businesses. In this revealing conversation, Shaun Karakkattu, Chief Operating Officer of Atlog, shares how their team is revolutionizing how rental dealers connect with customers through remarkably human-like AI voice agents.

Shaun explains how Atlog was born from recognizing a critical gap in the rent-to-own space – the challenge of consistently making timely collection calls when staff are busy with in-store customers or otherwise unavailable. Their solution? AI voice agents that sound so authentic that during demonstrations, people have mistaken them for actual employees. "We had it on speakerphone," Shaun recalls, "and there was a person walking distance and they're like, 'Is that Reggie from XYZ store?'"

What distinguishes Atlog from previous attempts to bring technology to the RTO space is their vertical approach – designing software specifically for rental dealers rather than adapting generic solutions. Their team combines deep technical expertise (all three co-founders have computer science backgrounds from Vanderbilt) with mentorship from tech industry leaders through the prestigious "Y Combinator" program, which has launched companies like Airbnb and DoorDash.

The conversation explores how Atlog's technology maintains the personal touch that's vital to rent-to-own while addressing practical challenges. Their system provides real-time dashboards showing call performance metrics, integrates with existing POS systems, and offers various voice options including different accents and languages. Future plans include expanding from collections to inbound customer service, delivery feedback calls, and eventually sales outreach.

For rental dealers interested in bringing this technology to their operations, Atlog offers "white glove" onboarding, where they visit stores personally to customize implementation. Their pricing is store-based, making the solution accessible to both single-location operators and multi-store enterprises.

Connect with Atlog at sean@atlog.ai or visit atlog.ai to schedule a demo and experience firsthand how AI can transform your rental business while preserving the relationships that make RTO special.

*Operating software currently being developed and not ready as of the recording of this podcast.

Sponsored by: APRO, Wow Brands, JLR America, and FlyWheel RTO

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Why do some rent-to-own stores convert 30% of their customers to new agreements while others struggle to break 20%? The answer lies not in last-minute sales tactics but in the entire customer experience journey. In this eye-opening conversation, Pete Shau and Jason Winters dive deep into the real factors that determine whether customers stick around after completing their agreements.

The modern rental customer has more options than ever before. With just a few taps on their phone, they can find comparable merchandise from countless competitors. What makes them choose to continue doing business with you? It starts with deserving their loyalty through exceptional service, clean stores, well-presented merchandise, and problem resolution that exceeds expectations.

We explore practical strategies for improving conversion rates, from the timing of customer outreach (60-90 days before agreement completion) to bundling complementary products that enhance their existing purchases. Learn why loyalty programs represent a massive untapped opportunity in the rental industry and how delivery personnel can dramatically impact customer retention through their service approach.

Most importantly, discover why the fundamental question every rental business should ask is simply: "Do you deserve their business?" As Pete emphasizes, "Your PIF conversion starts when you say 'Hi, how are you doing today?'" The entire customer relationship—not just the final sales pitch—determines whether they'll walk away or sign a new agreement.

Ready to transform your conversion rates? Email pete@thertoshowpodcast.com with your questions or connect with us on social media. Subscribe to our podcast for more industry insights that drive real-world results.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Post-pandemic realities have forever altered the customer journey in rent-to-own, demanding fresh approaches from industry veterans and newcomers alike. Pete Shau and Jason Winters unpack this transformation with refreshing candor, highlighting how the traditional in-store sales model has been overwhelmed by digital-first shopping habits.

Most striking is their revelation about traffic patterns: "We're not 70-30 anymore. We're 80-20 or even 85-15," with online interactions dominating customer engagement. This shift requires sales professionals to develop entirely new skillsets for closing deals through text messages, emails, and automated systems rather than face-to-face conversations.

The episode introduces a compelling metaphor comparing successful sales teams to gardeners rather than hunters. Where traditional approaches focused on immediate conversions, today's environment demands patience and consistent nurturing. "No gardener plants just one carrot," Shau notes, emphasizing that multiple touchpoints across various channels must be maintained with potential customers. This gardening mentality recognizes that while customers initiate purchase decisions at their convenience (often during evening hours when scrolling through social media), conversion requires persistent follow-up.

Perhaps most valuable is their critique of the "Superman manager" syndrome plaguing many RTO operations—where one person attempts to handle everything themselves rather than developing team capabilities. This approach ultimately wastes resources as stores "pay for five salaries but only get what one person can physically do." Both hosts advocate for training environments where everyone contributes to sales, from delivery techs spotting additional needs in customers' homes to collection managers reconnecting with previous customers.

The conversation wraps with practical advice about following established processes rather than reinventing operational systems. As Winters puts it, "A chocolate chip cookie is delicious. You don't have to invent it every time you want one." This wisdom applies perfectly to RTO operations seeking to thrive in challenging retail environments.

Ready to transform your approach for today's digital-first customers? Subscribe now and join the conversation about evolving your RTO strategy for 2023 and beyond.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

A glass artist's son from Uruguay transforms into a rent-to-own industry leader—Leonard Alonso's journey captures the essence of entrepreneurial spirit and American opportunity.

At just 13 years old, Leonard was crafting glass Disney characters on Main Street after Walt Disney himself discovered his father's artistry at the 1965 World's Fair. This early training in craftsmanship and customer service laid the foundation for an extraordinary career path that would take him from Disneyland to the highest levels of the rent-to-own industry.

When Leonard transitioned to Champion TV (later becoming a 100+ store powerhouse), he started in the warehouse refurbishing scratched console televisions. His breakthrough came during a closed-door sale when his product knowledge and natural sales ability caught management's attention. This moment launched his ascent through operations—from store manager to regional director overseeing 54 locations—his secret weapon being a meticulous approach to product handling that dramatically reduced costs.

After decades in operational leadership across Champion, Color Time, Aaron's and more, Leonard identified a critical gap in the rent-to-own supply chain. Drawing on this insight, he founded JLR America, creating a streamlined supply solution specifically tailored to what rent-to-own operators actually need. What sets JLR America apart? A leadership team with over 50 years of combined in-store experience, competitive pricing, lower shipping thresholds, and the agility to make decisions "within a minute"—now serving over 500 rent-to-own stores nationwide.

Leonard's advice for aspiring entrepreneurs reflects his own success formula: "Hone your skill and don't be afraid. Take the plunge." Want to learn more about transforming industry expertise into entrepreneurial success? Explore JLR America at jlramerica.com or call 727-395-9121 to discover how their rent-to-own knowledge can support your business needs.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Finding new customers remains one of the biggest challenges for Rent-to-Own businesses. While many stores focus on reactivating inactive customers or working through paid-out lists, there's a powerful channel that's often overlooked: Facebook marketing.
 
 Marketing expert Jeraud Norman joins host Pete Shau to reveal how Facebook's "interruption-based" marketing creates opportunities that Google's "intent-based" approach simply can't match. Instead of waiting for customers to search for your products, Facebook allows you to appear regularly in their feeds, creating awareness and staying top-of-mind for when they need your services.
 
 "Facebook is basically like the radio, but with visuals," Jeraud explains, highlighting how this consistent presence trains potential customers to think of your business first. Through authentic video content featuring real team members, RTO businesses can create personal connections with prospects before they ever walk through the door. This "know, like, and trust" effect significantly increases conversion rates and puts you miles ahead of competitors.
 
 The most surprising insight? You don't need professional equipment or polished scripts. In fact, authentic smartphone videos often outperform expensive, corporate-style productions. The focus should be on showing your real personality and creating genuine connections with potential customers. Minor blunders or imperfections actually make you more relatable and trustworthy.
 
 Ready to bring fresh blood to your RTO business? Discover how Facebook marketing could transform your customer acquisition strategy and drive substantial growth for your store.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What does it take to build a sustainable rental business that thrives for over four decades? Gary Ferman, who recently stepped back after 44 years at the helm of Showplace Rent-to-Own, shares the wisdom earned from growing a single location into a 15-store operation across multiple states.

Gary's journey began in 1982 during economic hardship with interest rates at 18.5%. With remarkable candor, he reveals how determination and financial discipline propelled him forward despite challenging circumstances. "My wife drove a 1964 Mercury Comet station wagon in the 80s for nine years with no air conditioning, no automatic transmission," he recalls, illustrating the sacrifices made to reinvest in the business. This bootstrap mentality laid the foundation for sustainable growth.

The conversation explores Showplace's evolution, including its expansion to 25 locations before Gary made the strategic decision to sell 10 stores to Aaron's in 2003. This pivotal moment highlights one of his most valuable insights: discovering your operational "sweet spot." For Showplace, that meant about 125 employees—a size that allowed Gary to maintain personal relationships while ensuring quality operations. As he puts it, "Big was never as important to me as good."

Perhaps most compelling is Gary's approach to succession planning, as his son Keith now serves as president and majority owner. Rather than forcing a legacy, Gary supported his children's individual passions, creating space for Keith to naturally develop his leadership within the company. Their complementary strengths created a partnership reminiscent of Gary's relationship with his wife Marianne, who managed their cash advance business while he focused on RTO.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Gary offers actionable advice drawn from Stephen Covey's principles: "Dream big, write it down, bust it into bite-sized pieces, keep the main thing the main thing." This methodical approach to goal-setting and prioritization forms the cornerstone of his success philosophy.

Ready to take your business journey further or just starting out? Subscribe to The RTO Show for more industry insights from pioneers who've shaped the rental landscape.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Have you ever wondered who's looking out for the rent-to-own industry in Washington DC? In this eye-opening conversation, host Pete Shau sits down with APRO CEO Charles Smitherman to pull back the curtain on LegCon, the annual legislative conference that forms the front line defense for the $12 billion rent-to-own industry.
 
 Charles shares how this 31-year tradition continues to evolve, with attendance growing to 88 participants this year as industry professionals converge on Capitol Hill to educate lawmakers about the unique nature of rent-to-own transactions. You'll discover the meticulous planning that goes into organizing effective legislative visits, with teams carefully matched to relevant representatives and schedules optimized to prevent unnecessary treks across the massive Capitol campus (though many still clocked an impressive 16,000 steps!).
 
 The conversation takes a fascinating turn when discussing the Fellows Program, an innovative initiative bringing first-time attendees into the advocacy fold. By sponsoring newcomers and pairing them with experienced advocates like industry veterans Larry Carrico and Michael Wall, APRO is cultivating the next generation of industry defenders. The results are impressive – half of last year's inaugural class returned independently this year.
 
 Perhaps most compelling is the emphasis on storytelling as the cornerstone of effective advocacy. As Charles explains, while data matters, it's the personal narratives about providing "cold milk, not just refrigerators" and "good night's sleep, not just mattresses" that truly resonate with legislators. These stories highlight how rent-to-own serves communities and creates opportunities for both customers and employees.
 
 Whether you're a seasoned RTO professional or just curious about how industries protect themselves from regulatory overreach, this episode offers rare insight into the proactive approach that keeps rent-to-own accessible for the one in thirty American families who rely on it. Ready to add your voice to this important conversation? Learn how you can participate in LegCon 2026 and help shape the future of an industry that touches millions of lives.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Ed Wynn, the legendary legal architect behind rent-to-own's regulatory framework, shares his extraordinary four-decade journey protecting an industry that many lawmakers never fully understood. Fresh into retirement after serving as APRO's legal counsel since its inception, Wynn offers unprecedented insights into how a collection of rental dealers transformed into a sophisticated national organization.

The conversation reveals fascinating origin stories, including how APRO literally began in Wynn's law office with just one secretary. We explore the delicate dance of state-level legislation where, in exchange for accepting regulation and disclosure requirements, the industry secured crucial protection from being recharacterized as credit sales. Wynn walks us through multiple attempts to establish federal legislation—coming tantalizingly close in both 1983 and 2001—while explaining why many Republican lawmakers surprisingly cautioned against federal oversight.

Perhaps most compelling is Wynn's candid discussion of rental theft prosecution, where he shares unconventional but effective strategies for working with reluctant district attorneys. "Go to the DA's website," Wynn advises, "find the law firm that made the largest contributions to his last election, hire somebody from that firm, and get a meeting." This pragmatic approach to political realities perfectly illustrates how Wynn navigated complex challenges throughout his career.

As virtual rent-to-own emerges as the industry's growth frontier, Wynn provides critical context about recent legal victories that affirm the "no obligation" foundation of these transactions. His assessment of today's legal climate and thoughts on the incoming administration offer valuable perspective for anyone connected to rental businesses.

Whether you're a rental operator seeking to understand your industry's legal foundations or simply fascinated by how specialized industries navigate regulatory challenges, this conversation offers rare wisdom from someone who truly shaped an entire business sector. Subscribe now to hear more industry insights from leaders who've been in the trenches!

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

The journey from a small-time rental operation to transforming an entire industry doesn't happen by accident. Ken Butler, with nearly five decades of experience in rent-to-own, pulls back the curtain on how he helped grow Aaron's from a modest 12-store operation to over 2,000 locations nationwide.

Ken reveals the revolutionary thinking that changed how the entire industry operates. Moving from weekly to monthly payments, extending ownership timelines, creating distribution centers, and manufacturing their own furniture through Woodhaven – these weren't just business decisions, they were industry-altering innovations. Perhaps most fascinating is how Ken transformed the terminology from "rent-to-own" to "lease ownership," recognizing that consumers wanted the product but not the stigma.

The magic behind Ken's approach wasn't just operational brilliance but his focus on building genuine human connections. "This is a personal relationship business," he emphasizes throughout our conversation. From creating closing rooms for private customer discussions to implementing unique culture-building initiatives like the Lucky Dog mascot, Ken understood that success came from treating both employees and customers with respect.

What truly sets this conversation apart are Ken's candid reflections on leadership. He shares how he identified competitive people who could drive growth, empowered managers to make decisions, and created incentive programs that turned store managers into entrepreneurs. The Diamond Club recognizing million-dollar stores became a powerful motivator that transformed performance across the entire organization.

Whether you're a rental industry veteran, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply fascinated by the inner workings of successful businesses, Ken's wisdom about time management, creating company culture, and maintaining work-life balance provides invaluable lessons you can apply immediately. What will you take from this legend's playbook?

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Enjoy the world of quality rugs in the rent-to-own industry as Heath Perkins of Daylan Rug Company shares the remarkable journey of bringing fashion-forward floor coverings to a market once dominated by afterthought accessories.

When Daylan first approached the rent-to-own sector over a decade ago, they encountered a surprising reality: most stores were content with basic, low-quality rugs that did little to enhance their showrooms. "Fashion was not even in the conversation," Heath recalls, describing how some dealers would simply request "12 rugs" without any concern for style, color, or quality. What followed was an education campaign that would revolutionize how rental dealers approach accessories.

The secret to Daylan's success has been convincing rental operators that their customers desire the same quality and style found in mainstream furniture retailers. By investing just $20-25 more per rug, stores can access products that dramatically improve showroom aesthetics, boost furniture sales, and—crucially for the rental model—withstand multiple rental cycles. These aren't just pretty accessories; they're strategic sales tools that highlight furniture and create cohesive room designs that customers can envision in their homes.

Perhaps most exciting is Daylan's embrace of truly washable rugs, now the most searched rug-related term online. Using special backing technology, these innovative products can be machine-washed or simply hosed down in a driveway with dish soap, making them ideal for the rental market where reconditioning returned items is essential. As Heath demonstrates, a quick clean leaves them looking "brand new" and ready for the next customer.

Looking to elevate your showroom experience and offer customers the quality they deserve? Contact Heath directly at heathperkins@daylan.com to connect with your local sales representative and discover how Daylan's extensive collection of 1,500+ designs can transform your rental business.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

This episode offers a fascinating exploration into the workings of the rent-to-own sector, featuring a conversation with Michael Kays, the Vice President of Rental Operations at Ashley Furniture. As a leading name in the industry for over 75 years, Ashley has enabled countless families to turn houses into homes, emphasizing not just consumer transactions but building lasting relationships. Michael discusses the importance of gratitude and giving during the holiday season, illustrating that this ethos extends beyond mere transactions and is foundational to the company's culture.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the innovative approaches Ashley employs to ensure superior quality and efficient logistics in their operations. Michael sheds light on how Ashley has successfully navigated challenges during economic fluctuations and changing consumer behaviors, highlighting their commitment to community engagement through sustainability initiatives and scholarships aimed at promoting STEM education. These efforts demonstrate that Ashley is diligent about not just making profit, but also making a positive impact on society.

Dive deeper into this episode to uncover the strategies that drive Ashley Furniture's success in the rent-to-own sector, while discovering how they continue to adapt and thrive in a competitive market. Whether you are a seasoned dealer, a consumer interested in furniture solutions, or simply curious about the industry's evolution, this episode equips you with knowledge and inspiration. Join us in celebrating the synergy between quality service, community support, and innovative strategies that contribute to an enriching customer experience. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Step into the world of NAV-AIR, a transformative force in the rent-to-own streaming industry, as we explore their journey and innovative approach. This episode of the RTO Show features a dynamic discussion with the leadership team, highlighting their military backgrounds and how these experiences shape their mission to provide unparalleled service and build lasting relationships in the RTO community. 

Discover how NAV-AIR works to disrupt the market by offering unique streaming solutions while overcoming initial challenges such as bootstrapping logistics and restoring dealer trust after previous negative experiences in the industry. With customer service and integrity at the forefront, NAVAIR is committed to creating a seamless rental experience where products are paired with reliable support.

We also take a peek at the exciting future lined up for NAV-AIR, from the unveiling of new consumer electronics to advanced features designed to enhance usability and engage customers. Whether through voice-controlled devices or multi-screen viewing options, NAV-AIR aims to meet modern consumer expectations while maintaining their core values of integrity, service, and excellence. 

Tune in to gain insight into the ever-evolving rent-to-own market, the challenges it presents, and how NAV-AIR aims to lead the way in shaping its future. Don't miss out on discovering the innovations they have in store and how they plan to revolutionize the industry. Join us on this journey toward a new standard in streaming services and customer engagement, and be part of the conversation about the next big developments in the rent-to-own space! Be sure to subscribe, share, and leave your thoughts on what this means for the future of streaming in the RTO industry.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Master the power of AI marketing strategies and transform your approach to connecting with local communities. Join me, Pete SHau, and my esteemed guest, Daniel Hajduk from Vox Populi, as we navigate the exciting intersection of AI and local business marketing, with a focus on the rent-to-own industry. Together, we promise to unravel how AI can break through traditional marketing barriers, allowing businesses to customize their campaigns in line with local events and unique community needs. We illuminate the path to creating vibrant, community-centric marketing strategies that foster growth and deeper customer connections.

Discover how AI can turn social media into a powerhouse of personalized marketing. Daniel Hajduk and I explore actionable insights for synchronizing your sales strategies with customer milestones like birthdays and anniversaries, ensuring your promotions resonate personally and seasonally. Imagine crafting campaigns months in advance, fueled by AI-driven content creation that keeps your messaging fresh and engaging. We delve into the blend of AI insights and human experience, which together create a more efficient and compelling approach to customer engagement.

Dive into the world of data optimization and learn how it can revolutionize your marketing game. We discuss the benefits of understanding customer behavior through data analysis, from predicting shopping trends to tailoring marketing tactics for different demographics. The conversation also highlights the significance of adapting marketing strategies over time, especially for businesses operating with limited budgets. As we embrace AI's role in shaping the future of marketing, we also explore the potential of organic brand-building methods and the exciting innovations presented at events like CES. Join us for a journey into the incredible potential of AI to redefine the rent-to-own industry's marketing landscape.

Sponsored BY APRO, Vox-Pop-Uli, Jeraud Marketing

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Mastering inventory management and optimizing your business operations with the power of AI. Join us as we engage with Daniel Hajduk from Vox Pop uli, who shares his hands-on experience in transforming apparel inventory management using AI. Learn how AI analyzes order patterns, anticipates trends, and optimizes stock levels to streamline processes and boost profitability. By harnessing historical data, businesses can predict seasonal demands and ensure they are prepared for any market shift, enhancing operational efficiency in the process.

Discover how structured planning and effective training play a vital role in maximizing AI's potential in business. We explore the importance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and how they can streamline task management, improve scheduling, and enhance service delivery. The discussion highlights the use of AI as a task manager, simplifying daily operations, and ensuring essential activities like inventory checks and sales follow-ups are completed timely. We emphasize the balance of leveraging technology for organization while maintaining human interaction for a well-rounded approach to business effectiveness.

Ponder the future as we examine AI's growing significance in personal and professional landscapes. From revolutionizing customer service with predictive analytics to sparking creativity with personalized content generation, AI's impact is undeniable. We reflect on how AI is reshaping cultural norms, encouraging a shift from overwork to prioritizing mental health and efficient work practices. As AI continues to integrate seamlessly into daily life, it promises to transform industries, making technology an indispensable tool for enhancing productivity and fostering personal growth.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Revolutionize your customer growth strategy with AI and make your rent-to-own business stand out in a crowded market. Join me, Pete Shau, and special guest Daniel Hajduk from Vox-Pop-uli as we uncover how AI can transform traditional customer service approaches that often fall flat with repetitive patterns and high costs. We dive into the power of community-based activities and discuss how local events and industry trends can be leveraged for personalized campaigns. By engaging with local chambers of commerce and tapping into regional nuances like Atlanta’s booming movie industry, you can craft marketing efforts that are both relevant and remarkable. 

We also explore the art of personalized birthday marketing and how to turn special occasions into meaningful customer engagement opportunities. Imagine crafting themed offers that align seamlessly with seasonal buying behaviors, making each interaction with your brand memorable. Daniel and I delve into the potential of integrating these special dates into a comprehensive marketing plan that is both creative and impactful. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer looking to innovate or just beginning your journey, this episode promises practical insights and strategies to elevate your marketing game and truly connect with your audience.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Discover how to revolutionize your rent-to-own business using the cutting-edge power of AI! Join me, Pete Shau, along with AI expert Daniel Hajduk, as we guide you through the latest strategies to supercharge your sales efforts. This episode holds the key to mastering AI-driven sales scripts and overcoming customer objections, empowering even the most novice salespeople to thrive. Learn how AI tools like Synthesia and SundaySky can transform your training materials with lifelike avatars, making your sales team more adaptable and effective than ever before.

You'll also get an inside look at how major brands are navigating the AI frontier. Plus, meet Moxie, Vox's groundbreaking AI-powered mascot, symbolizing a bold new era in marketing. Understand the delicate balance between AI integration and the irreplaceable human touch, ensuring your business stays ahead without losing the personal connection. Whether it's streamlining event planning or optimizing sales schedules, AI is shaping the future, and we’re sharing the secrets to harness its full potential.

Finally, we explore how AI is reshaping the landscape beyond sales, enhancing efficiency in everything from route planning to CRM tasks. Daniel and I reflect on the practical applications in real-time scenarios, offering insights into planning for Q1 of 2025 with AI as a strategic partner. This episode is packed with actionable insights and personal anecdotes, arming you with the knowledge to innovate and excel in the rapidly evolving world of AI-powered business. Don't miss out on the chance to stay ahead in the RTO industry!

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Unlock the potential of artificial intelligence in the retail and rent-to-own furniture industries with insights from our special guest, Daniel Hajduk from Vox Populi. Discover how industry leaders like Home Depot and Ikea are transforming customer experiences through AI innovations like weather-based inventory forecasting and room planning tools. Together, we explore how these advancements are not just enhancing efficiency in retail but also paving new paths in the rent-to-own sector, offering tailored solutions for customers based on their preferences and home decor.

Throughout our conversation, we reveal the game-changing role AI plays in simplifying operations and boosting productivity. From predictive sales strategies that anticipate seasonal trends, to cloud-based collaborations that streamline store operations, AI is becoming a cornerstone of modern retail. We delve into practical applications, such as transitioning from paper to digital processes for seamless rental agreements, and discuss how tools like Zoom and VersaRent are revolutionizing daily business practices by reducing repetitive tasks and optimizing workflows.

The future of retail and rent-to-own businesses is here, and it's intertwined with AI. As we navigate these technological advancements, discover how committing to AI integration can lead to more informed decision-making and improved business outcomes. We also touch on the importance of maintaining a strong digital presence and leveraging social media for success. Join us as we explore these transformative technologies, emphasizing the need for leadership to prioritize AI in their strategic vision for staying competitive in an ever-evolving market.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

In this episode of the RTO Show, host Pete Shau sits down with Daniel Hajduk from Vox Populi to kick off a six-part mini-series dedicated to understanding and implementing AI in the rent-to-own industry. As a marketing expert from Vox Populi, a platinum sponsor of the RTO Show, Daniel breaks down AI fundamentals and addresses common concerns about this rapidly evolving technology.

The conversation demystifies AI, moving beyond sci-fi fears of Terminator-like scenarios to explore its practical applications as a powerful business tool. Daniel explains how AI is already integrated into everyday technologies—from Facebook and Amazon to mobile phones—and discusses various AI platforms including ChatGPT, Claude, and Google's Gemini.

The discussion covers the accessibility of AI tools, from free versions to paid enterprise solutions, and explores how AI enhances rather than replaces human capabilities. Daniel emphasizes the importance of balanced AI adoption in business operations and provides guidance for both tech-savvy users and beginners. The episode delves into the distinction between early algorithmic chatbots and modern AI systems, offering practical ways to start incorporating AI into daily workflows.

Daniel emphasizes that AI should be viewed as a collaborative tool that augments human capabilities rather than replacing them. He compares AI to revolutionary innovations like electricity, suggesting it's a transformative technology that's becoming increasingly accessible to everyone. The episode provides practical advice for listeners at different comfort levels with technology, from complete beginners to those ready to implement advanced AI solutions in their businesses.

The discussion also addresses common concerns about AI, including job displacement and creativity loss, with Daniel offering reassurance that AI works best as a complement to human skills rather than a replacement. He encourages listeners to start small with free versions of AI tools and gradually explore more advanced applications as they become comfortable with the technology.

Host Pete Shau and Daniel preview the upcoming episodes in the series, which will dive deeper into specific applications of AI in office work, advertising, and other aspects of the rent-to-own business. They emphasize that staying current with AI technology is becoming increasingly important for maintaining competitiveness in the modern business landscape.

The episode concludes with information about Vox Populi's RED (Remember Everyone Deployed) initiative, a charitable program supporting deployed service members and their families through the sale of red shirts, with a goal of raising $1 million for the cause.

Don't miss the upcoming episodes in this informative series that will help you understand and leverage AI technology in your rent-to-own business. Follow the RTO Show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and reach out with questions at pete@theRTOshowpodcast.com.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Unlock the future of the rent-to-own market with our special guest, Brandon Jin from Living Essentials. Discover groundbreaking innovations like USB ports in headboards and massive soundbars integrated into fireplace TV consoles. Dive into the realities of navigating shifting demographics, inflation, and the unknowns of an election year, all while exploring how Living Essentials is strategically maneuvering through potential tariffs and the logistical challenges of the Chinese New Year.

Journey with us through the evolution of rent-to-own furniture and the fascinating transition from technical roles to customer-facing positions. Brandon shares his personal growth story, highlighting the role of mentorship and collaboration in shaping his career. From the novel concept of "Unfold Assembly" to the latest trends in home decor aimed at younger consumers, our discussion sheds light on how style meets functionality in modern living spaces.

In a landscape marked by unique challenges, hear about Living Essentials' strategic plans to enhance customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. From shifting warehouse locations to embrace flexible solutions, to navigating business dynamics in high-tax states like California and the burgeoning markets of Texas and Florida, Brandon reveals the innovative approaches that keep Living Essentials at the forefront of the industry. We wrap up with heartfelt appreciation for our listeners, celebrating community growth and the promising path ahead.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What happens when the host becomes the guest? Join us on an exciting journey as Pete Shau, flips the microphone to reveal his life story. From a snowy birth in Brooklyn to the sunny vibes of Florida, Pete's path led him unexpectedly into the rent-to-own industry, thanks to a life-changing encounter at a bank. This episode promises insights into the power of building genuine relationships and how everyday interactions can open doors to opportunities you never saw coming.

Through engaging discussions, Pete shares his ascent from account manager to overseeing multiple stores, stressing the importance of firsthand experience—like working on the truck—to earn credibility and respect within his team. We navigate through stories of paradigm shifts, the art of empathy, and the lessons learned from role models who've shaped Pete's leadership style. This episode is packed with personal growth reflections, touching on how self-awareness and understanding personality types can enhance both personal and professional lives.

We wrap up with a nostalgic look back at childhood hobbies and their unexpected influence on business acumen and personal motivations. The episode also presents thought-provoking narratives on reassessing social circles and examines the nuanced world of sales and persuasion. Whether you're interested in leadership, personal development, or just a good story, Pete's journey offers something for everyone, highlighting the rewarding experiences within the rent-to-own industry and beyond. Tune in for an insightful, heartfelt conversation that's bound to resonate with RTO listeners.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What if securing capital for your rent-to-own business was as simple as connecting with the right financial partner? Join us for an enlightening episode with Thomas Murphy from Capital Concierges, who shares his transition from the jewelry industry to a key figure in rent-to-own financing. With his wealth of experience and a network of 50-60 financial institutions, Thomas provides valuable insights into how businesses can secure the capital they need, whether it's for inventory, new locations, or partner buyouts. His pragmatic approach to navigating the financial challenges in today's economic environment will offer listeners useful strategies to manage cash flow and accommodate customers with credit challenges.

Thomas takes us deep into the unique dynamics of the rent-to-own industry, underscoring the critical role of tailored capital solutions. We talk about the hurdles faced by RTO businesses when traditional financing avenues aren't viable due to their perceived high-risk nature. Drawing from his own career journey, Thomas shares how mentors have been pivotal to his career development and how his experience in the industry allows him to provide practical solutions for entrepreneurs. From flexible payment plans to the concept of balance on rent, we explore the operational dynamics that contribute to the success of RTO businesses.

Aspiring entrepreneurs and existing RTO business owners will find this episode especially valuable as Thomas offers practical advice on crafting a solid business plan that instills confidence in lenders. We touch on the need for a financial safety net and explore options like express lines of credit and SBA loans. Thomas also highlights the importance of supporting small RTO dealers, particularly in challenging economic times, ensuring they are well-positioned for success when the economy improves. Prepare to be inspired and equipped with actionable advice to help you thrive in the ever-evolving rent-to-own sector.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     Join me as I sit down with Kaspar Fopp to uncover the inspiring comeback story of Wondersign. Discover how this innovative company, once celebrated as "the iPhone of digital signage" in Switzerland, faced daunting challenges when it expanded to the U.S. market. Kaspar takes us through the twists and turns of reviving a tech company on the brink of closure, highlighting pivotal moments that spurred Wondersign's resurgence in the rent-to-own industry. From unexpected encounters to strategic collaborations, Kaspar shares insights on the importance of adaptability and innovation in overcoming setbacks.

     We also explore the integral role of relationships in boosting business success. Learn how a serendipitous meeting with Ashley Furniture's marketing VP turned the tide for Wondersign, paving the way for transformative technological advancements. Hear about the journey of digitizing Ashley's extensive product catalog, the complexities of kiosk branding, and the challenges of adapting European success to the U.S. market. Kaspar shares personal anecdotes of navigating visa processes and the demanding responsibilities that come with being an American citizen, offering a glimpse into the personal side of building a cross-continental enterprise.

     As we look ahead, dive into the launch of Wondersign 2.0 and its potential to revolutionize inventory decisions in the rent-to-own sector. Uncover how embracing technology like 3D and AR features can enhance customer experiences and drive business growth. Listen in as Kaspar and I discuss the evolution of Wondersign's brand, the necessity of diversification, and the exciting future of the RTO industry. Don't miss this captivating episode, packed with knowledge and inspiration for anyone eager to understand the resilience needed to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Are you ready to transform your marketing strategy and dominate the rent-to-own market? Join us for a deep dive into the innovative world of Wowbrands with CEO and CTO, Ryan Krass. From pioneering mobile websites to developing state-of-the-art CRM software, Ryan offers an inside look at how his team is reshaping lead generation, mobile compatibility, and customer communication to capture the attention of younger consumers. Learn how seamless integration with existing RTO systems like Versirent and High Touch ensures a user-friendly and effective experience for clients.

Discover the seismic shifts in consumer behavior brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and what it means for your RTO business. We'll discuss the newfound importance of rapid response times to online inquiries and how younger generations are now purchasing big-ticket items online. Retraining salesforces and integrating technologies like VoIP systems can streamline customer engagement and boost efficiency. Ryan shares real-world examples and data that underscore the need to adapt quickly to these evolving trends in order to stay competitive.

Finally, get the inside scoop on how to make your digital advertising dollars work harder for you. Ryan discusses the critical role of mastering paid ads on Google, as the platform's ad space continues to expand. Learn about the varying effectiveness of different marketing channels, such as TV, radio, and social media, and why being present where consumers are most active is crucial. We'll wrap up the episode with actionable strategies for managing leads through advanced CRM systems, ensuring no opportunity slips through the cracks. This episode is packed with invaluable insights to help you stay ahead in the ever-changing RTO market.

Sponsored by APRO, Vox-pop-uli, and Jeraud Norman Marketing

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What makes an event truly unforgettable, even in the face of unexpected challenges like inclement weather? Join us for an in-depth chat with Charles Smitherman, CEO of APRO, as he pulls back the curtain on the immense planning and collaboration that made the recent RTO World in Orlando a grand success. Charles provides valuable insights into the intricate partnership between APRO and TRIB Group and the significance of pre-event activities like the legal summit and women's forum. These forums not only set the stage for the main event but also offer essential opportunities for industry engagement and learning.

What unique platform combines networking with meaningful discussions on industry challenges, particularly those faced by women? Discover the innovative "world cafe" concept and celebrate the growing representation of women in the rent-to-own industry, as highlighted by their dominance in the million-dollar store awards. We also explore the vibrant diversity brought by new vendors at the APRO show, offering a myriad of services and products ranging from furniture to credit card processing. The Women's Forum is spotlighted for fostering a supportive community among industry leaders, proving to be an invaluable part of the event.

Looking ahead, what makes Omaha, Nebraska, the perfect location for RTO World 2025? Unpack our conversation around the strategic choice of Omaha, benefiting from its central location and excellent convention facilities. We delve into the anticipated discussions on generational and legal issues within the RTO sector, featuring insights from Edwin, the "godfather of RTO," and Michael Helton of R,G, and Co. The episode also revisits the magical fundraising night at RTO World, where the community's enthusiasm helped raise $28,000 for the APRO Charitable Foundation. As we prepare for future events, the importance of camaraderie, feedback, and continuous improvement is underscored, ensuring that each RTO World surpasses the last.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Curious about how a TV producer makes waves in the rent-to-own industry? Join us as we chat with Justin Burns, Director of Marketing for Full O Pep Appliances, dba American Rental Home Furnishings, live from APRO's RTO World 2024 convention. Justin brings his unique perspective from a 15-year TV production career and shares the intricate process of crafting marketing strategies tailored to diverse markets. Learn about the effectiveness of CTV and OTT, and discover Justin's innovative thoughts on leveraging YouTube for targeted marketing. Our conversation is rich with insights on the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in this dynamic field.

Ever wondered how authenticity can transform your business? This episode dives deep into the power of video marketing and personal branding. Justin offers practical tips for creating engaging content, balancing high-quality evergreen pieces with frequent updates, and using simple tools like iPhones for effective video production. We also explore the significance of genuine relationships in the rent-to-own industry, revealing how authenticity builds trust and drives success. From the challenges faced by store managers to the importance of real connections, this episode is a treasure trove of actionable insights for anyone in the marketing or RTO sector.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Ever wondered how rising costs are shaping consumer behavior in the retail world? In our latest episode, we sit down with Jennifer Harrod, owner of Jameson's Sales and Rentals, right from the heart of APRO's RTO World 2024 convention in Orlando, Florida. Jennifer shares her story of a grueling 16-hour drive to the event through heavy rain and offers a candid look at her business's summer performance. She highlights how a robust June gave her the momentum needed for the third quarter and introduces us to her new full-time Penske truck rental service, despite a dip in Penske's peak season performance this year.

Discover the secrets behind evolving sales strategies in the challenging economic landscape as Jennifer discusses her innovative approach to selling appliances and furniture. With customers now prioritizing essential items like appliances over luxury furniture, Jennifer reveals how immediate weekly discounts can provide the instant gratification that drives sales. She also shares the importance of maintaining a good inventory, the benefits of reliable vendors like American Wholesale Furniture and Nationwide Furniture Distributors, and why keeping high standards for product quality and repair capabilities is crucial for customer satisfaction and efficient store operations.

Get inspired by the innovative retail trends that could revolutionize your business! From Capital Concierges' groundbreaking large cash register-like machines to the growing necessity of a robust online presence on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, Jennifer provides insights into attracting more foot traffic and adapting to market trends. Plus, we touch on the invaluable benefits of networking at industry shows, the unique offerings of our rental home company, and the excitement of future collaborations. Don't miss out on the valuable lessons and personal stories that make this episode a must-listen!

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Ever wondered how to achieve consistency and engagement in your social media marketing? Join me, Pete Shau, as I dig into this topic with industry experts Chad Fosdick and Jerard Norman at APRO's RTO World 2024 convention in Orlando, Florida. We uncover the powerful blend of organic content and strategic ad placements. Chad shares his secrets on making community-focused posts that truly resonate, while Jerard dives into the nuances of paid ads to keep your business top of mind. If you're seeking actionable advice to enhance your social media presence, this conversation is a must-listen.

Is radio still the king of credibility, or has social media taken the throne? In our exploration, we debate the trustworthiness of traditional media versus the deep engagement potential of social media. I make a case for social media's ability to forge strong connections with your audience through longer-form content. With younger generations increasingly opting out of traditional ads, we discuss why mastering social media is crucial for staying relevant and building brand loyalty.

How can you adapt your business strategies for growth without losing sight of your core values? Through real-world examples from Chad's businesses, we discuss personalized social media engagement and the benefits of cross-platform campaigns. Discover why being active and approachable on social media can significantly impact your conversion rates. Lastly, we share insights on Premier's evolution in response to market demands and offer a sneak peek into next year's RTO World 25 event in Omaha, Nebraska. 

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What if you could navigate economic turmoil without sacrificing essential services? Join us on this episode of The RTO Show, where Jason Winters from Impact Holdings unpacks the effects of today's economic climate on the rent-to-own (RTO) industry. We break down the rising costs of living and how RTO offers a lifeline for those in financial straits. Jason reveals the hidden operational costs that go into maintaining these critical services—think free deliveries, no-credit-check payment plans, and more—debunking the myth that RTO is overpriced.

Ever wonder about the real cost of long-term financial commitments? We dissect the often overlooked interest rates on mortgages and car payments and draw compelling comparisons to the transparency and flexibility of RTO options. Providing unique insights into customer service, we discuss the significance of personalized interactions in smaller businesses versus the impersonal nature of big-box retailers. Our conversation sheds light on the stigma around using RTO services and stresses their vital role for individuals facing financial hardship, ensuring they can still access essential household items.

Hiring and retaining quality employees in the RTO sector is no walk in the park, especially in today's tough economic environment. We discuss the high turnover rates, the importance of effective collections, and the need for a more rigorous hiring process. Learn about the importance of maintaining strong relationships with both employees and customers to ensure long-term success. Whether you're an industry insider or just curious about how RTO can be a lifeline during these challenging times, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for navigating the complexities of the current economy.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

 Value has always been the difference between one RTO company and the next. In a sea of the same what sets your brand apart. Well, Benefit Marketing Solutions have the answer. With their help you can offer your customers some of the best membership programs in the business. From extended service plans, to discount medical products, and even Tele-medicine options BMS memberships adds more value to the transaction. Brad Denison gives us insight on the stability of BMS,  and how they have grown throughout the years. Listen in to find out why 90% of the RTO Industry trusts BMS for added value when it comes to the customer transaction. 

Sponsored by: APRO, Vox-pop-uli, Jeraud Morman Marketing, and Dialectic

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2042834/15482623-shop-talk-w-brad-denison-at-benefit-marketing-solutions.mp3?download=true

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

The industry of RTO has been in existance for over 40 years. It has overcome adversity, misunderstanding, and economic downturns. With a solid history and over 10 billion in revenues annually you would think that there is nothing but great things headed our way.  That is until bills A9585 and S9275 were introduced to the New York legislature this past session. With the possibility of shutting down RTO as we know it in the state of New York APRO notified the NYRDA to act fast to get on top of this new legislation, and see just what needed to be done to educate these lawmakers on the effects these two bills have on the RTO industry in this state. NYRDA's new president Jeff Smith and his partner Matt Radecki at Hometown Rent to Own are working hard to keep RTO working properly in the state of NY and so much more.

Sponspred by APRO, Vox Pop Uli, and Jeraud Marketing Group
Thertoshowpodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

The best way to brand and advertise your RTO company is to go all out. To make sure that you leave no stone unturned and no area uncovered. When it comes to making their brand a household name no RTO company does it better than Cleek's Home Furnishings Rental and Sales in Missouri.  Everywhere you go in Missouri you can see and hear about "Tiger" John Cleek Jr's RTO locations. That means TV, Radio, Social Media, and even with the local rap artists like Nick Danger. It also includes local charities and more! Listen in on how family, tradition, and good old community outreach keeps John and Cleek's Home Furnishings on top of the RTO industry.

Sponsored by APRO, Vox-Pop-Uli, and Jeraud Marketing Group

www.thertoshowpodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Everyday there are challenges to face and overcome. Not all situations are the same and in fact the only thing that makes them similar is the fact that they become obstacles on the road to success. Karen Martin has many years of multi-unit management under her belt and she is a master at overcoming obstacles. From labor shortages to long distances she brings insight on how to cope, manage, and overcome the day to day obstacles that can keep us just a few steps away from success.

Sponsored by: APRO, Vox-Pop-Uli, and Jeraud Marketing group

thertoshowpodcast.com

pete@thertoshowpodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     You don't have to run the world to be a major player in the RTO industry. Premier Franchise owner Chad Fosdick explains why empty file cabinets and new beginnings are the best way to help you make your mark in the community you live in. He also explains his seats on both APRO and TRiB Boards and how they affect the industry today. Of course nothing comes easy whether its the change from one RTO giant to another or stepping back from running a region to just one location his insights are informative and directional. Leaving a good quote or some words of wisdom on your local social media page doesn't hurt either, specially when you have 26% of the community as followers. Luckily for us Chad is open to giving us the inside scoop on just how you can have single store success for yourself as well.

Sponsored by APRO and VOX-pop-uli

thertoshowpodcast.com
pete@thertoshowpodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     You know that there is a fire in the heart of the people who work in the RTO industry. It never dies out. Well in this case it was burning enough to take Leroy Steen out of retirement to build his own RTO brand in the state of Texas. The owner and operator of Rent Buy in Texas gives us insight on what brought him back to the industry from retirement, how he opened his stores on a budget, and the differences he's had to learn about the RTO Industry during and post COVID. If you want to make your own way you wont want to miss this! And if anyone knows how to Franchise a business please let him know how.

Show Sponsors: APRO and Vox-pop-uli
www.thertoshowpodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     In the RTO industry we have relationships with our customers and those relationships are vital to the success of our locations. Another important relationship is the one we share with our Vendors. Nekotva has played a critical part in the growth and expansion of our beloved industry for years and now we get to speak with them directly through Brian Rosen. Brian has been a vendor to RTO industry for around 20 years and that experience and knowledge is compounded by the fact the he is a 2nd generation RTO partner following his father Denis Rosen's footsteps. Brian is also a part of APRO's Vendor Advisory Committee helping bride the gap's between the vendors and representatives of the RTO industry as a whole. 

www.thertoshowpodcast.com

Premier sponsor: APRO
Platinum Sponsor: Vox-pop-uli

contact us at pete@thertoshowpodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     In RTO who doesn't love the feel of a big sale with a new customer? Thing is now it probably started from an on line or text lead from a CRM program. Everyone is going digital and our customers are as well. Most showrooms are going quiet and the walk-ins are becoming more and more digital in nature. Now is the best time to work on making our sales associates better at the on line transaction. We talk about the speed of the response, but what about the response itself.  Digital role play and working with an on line sales marketing team like Jeraud Norman Marketing can drastically change the way we approach the digital sale and seal the deal. 

Premier Show Sponsor: APRO
Show Sponsor: Jeraud Norman Marketing
www.thertoshowpodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     There are many things we can do to grow rental revenues, but today's question is what's more important to do first. Should you increase the marketing budget to bring in more leads or invest in sales training to close more agreements. This is an old question we shed a brand new light on. Listen as we talk to the owner of Vox-pop-uli about the way he sees the marketing campaigns, how to make these work together, and more importantly how to increase your revenues.

Prime Sponsor:  APRO
 www.thertoshowpodcast.com
Email is: Pete@thertoshowpodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     There are some traditions in RTO as old as time. A good old fashion sell a thon is one of them. Over the years these sales events have progressed and defined themselves to be a major staple in the day to day business of the RTO Industry. War Rooms are a great way to motivate your teams, make some sales, and most importantly grow by renting and moving product. But just how does one prep and execute a sales War Room? And more importantly what really is a War Room? Stick around and listen to Pete Shau and Joe Milligan describe this amazing event in detail.

Sponsored by APRO,  Vox-Pop-Uli, and Jeraud Norman Marketing

Visit us at www.thertoshowpodcast.com 
Email us at: pete@thertoshowpodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     There is always a silver lining so to speak. Even on the roughest days there are the positives that happen. Look for the small wins because they add up. Don't try and tackle the entire RTO Industry at one time. Chip away at it and remember the battle isn't won in just one sitting it's won in small settings. I just wanted to remind our team members out there that small wins are the building blocks for big wins.

Visit us online at www.thertoshowpodcast.com

or email me at Pete@thertoshowpodcast.com

Sponsored by APRO, VOX POP ULI, Dialectic RTO Division, and Jeraud Norman Marketing!

Support the show

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

   It's easy to forget the basics when everything seems to be changing on a daily basis. James Harvey from Buddy's Home Furnishings is here to remind us how to get it done with the basics from GM buy in, to making us laugh, its all in the process. Here are some of the things that gets his region to collect and hopefully they will help you to!

Visit us online at www.thertoshowpodcast.com

or email me at Pete@thertoshowpodcast.com

Sponsored by APRO, VOX POP ULI, Dialectic RTO Division, and Jeraud Norman Marketing!

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

 "Think you’ve heard it all in marketing? Get ready to be surprised! Adam Ball from Esquire Advertising just shared a wealth of insights on the show, and honestly, it’s hard to believe—but it's real. Adam’s approach uses state-of-the-art marketing software that delivers some of the best ROI I’ve ever encountered. This isn’t just another ‘good idea’—it’s a no-fail strategy designed to drive serious growth for your business. Imagine a method where success is practically guaranteed. Sound too good to be true? Well, today’s your lucky day, because this is the real deal, and it’s here to make an impact!"

Visit us online at www.thertoshowpodcast.com

or email me at Pete@thertoshowpodcast.com

Sponsored by APRO Rent-to-Own Headquarters, VOX POP ULI, Dialectic RTO Division, and Jeraud Norman Marketing!

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     It's seems like there is a million ways to deal with our employees these days. Looking for the right approach can be a difficult task but, Katie Marie Meyers has some insight that might help things out. Want to gain the trust of your employees or make sure they understand what's expected of them and us? Here are a few tips and tricks from onboarding to P.I.P. plans  that just might do the job.

Visit us online at www.thertoshowpodcast.com
or email me at Pete@thertoshowpodcast.com

Sponsored by APRO, VOX POP ULI, Dialectic, and Jeraud Marketing

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     We have talked a lot about the need for marketing and what we should do to make that happen. This episode covers how to review the data from your marketing and making the necessary adjustments to close those leads or to switch up to what form of marketing really works for you. Is Google the answer, YouTube maybe, what about social media? It's all about knowing how to get the most out of what you use. And for the sake of everything RTO Jaraud Norman says use a CRM!

Visit us online at www.thertoshowpodcast.com or email me at pete@thertoshowpodcast.com.

Sponsored by APRO, VOX POP ULI, Dialectic RTO Division, and Jaraud Marketing.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

   In the land of ever growing RTO companies there are still the single store owners that bring customer relationships to life, inspire and push innovation, and show a different side to Rent to Own. Owner Jennifer Harrod along with her son Jeremy have been taking care of their customers in Shelbyville, KY for years and face different kinds of obstacles with their one location. With customer loyalty from their 1st rental customer ever (Who has been renting since 1989 and still does!) and diversified offerings Jamison's is here to stay. Listen in on how COVID affected this small company and listen to them describe how the made it through and thrived!

Visit us online at www.thertoshowpodcast.com or email me at pete@thertoshowpodcast.com.

Sponsored by APRO, VOX POP ULI, and Dialectic RTO Division.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

  In the midst of what has started finally becoming the normal after COVID, and looking through what differences have emerged in RTO we are left with finding out how to navigate this new market. That means learning new sales strategies and adapting to the current marketplace whether it be new customers, new ways of shopping, or new vendor relationships. With these changes comes branding or possibly re-branding your business and coming out above the competition. Andrew Hajduk owner and operator of Vox-pop-uli gives us the insight needed to build your brand and the means to do it. Vox-pop-uli is a full service merchandise and apparel company that can get you started and on your way to being the brand you want to be. They also are a show sponsor so give a listen!

Visit us online at www.thertoshowpodcast.com or email me at pete@thertoshowpodcast.com.

Sponsored by APRO, VOX POP ULI, and Dialectic RTO Division.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

When it comes to turning things around in an RTO store there is no better place to start than with the manager. They have the potential to change the atmosphere, attitudes, and drive of their team. The GM is the captain of the ship and in every case they hold the keys to change and improvement. Many of failing stores have been turned right side up with a new perspective from a positive manager. This podcast covers why the right GM is so important and why it all starts with the manager! Plus their is an extra special guest who makes their podcast debut in this episode. You don't want to miss this!

Sponsored by APRO, Vox-Pop-Uli, and Dialectic.

This is the season 3 finally before season 4 starts in January 2024!

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

There isn't much in else in Rent To Own like watching a potential new customer walk in the front door. I gives hope and brightens the entire day. When you watch a potential customer leave empty handed is can feel as equally defeating. Why would they leave? Hopefully those potential customers didn't see the silent sales killer in action... Incorrect price tagging. In RTO its part of the business to have different pricing on the sales floor, but without a watchful eye all of the marketing in the world can't make up for some of these unnecessary mishaps. Listen as Jason and Pete discuss how to price correctly, how to avoid every day mistakes, what to look out for, and ways to make the pricing work for you and the RTO company you represent.

Visit us online at www.thertoshowpodcast.com or email me at pete@thertoshowpodcast.com.

Sponsored by APRO, VOX POP ULI, and Dialectic RTO Division.

Support the show

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

The act of passing information these days is crucial to stay on top. The process has to be quick, informative, and most importantly understood. So how do we keep larger RTO companies functioning like a well oiled machine? By bridging the gap between upper management and the employees in the the stores. Mike Skehan Division Manager from the 84 store franchise group Buddy Mac Holdings is going to give us some insight on how to do that. Whether its through in place management or just visiting yourself this is how BMH gets things done.

Visit us online at www.thertoshowpodcast.com or email me at pete@thertoshowpodcast.com.

Sponsored by APRO, VOX POP ULI, and Dialectic RTO Division.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

   There is always some insight to be had by looking into the past. Previous trends and successes mixed with hardships and failures can help give us a better look into the unknowing future. Well this week Dan Companion helps us focus on what can get us through the hard times as he to has years of experience to fall back on. From working with Badcock's first attempt in RTO, to sitting on the board for FRDA in Florida, or having one of the first RTO companies in the North East Dan Companion has seen a lot. So check out this podcast to see what Dan thinks is coming to the RTO Industry in the next 12 months.

Visit us online at www.thertoshowpodcast.com or email me at pete@thertoshowpodcast.com.

Sponsored by APRO, Vox-POP-Uli, and Dialectic. 

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     The best way to accomplish your goals is to stay hungry and keep pushing until you make it to success. Not sure if that's the way to do it?  RTO company Great Rooms Franchise owner Joshua Ciesicki says drive and determination are key factors for success in the field of RTO and he should know. Josh now Co-owns 3 different locations and is watching his businesses like a hawk. Plus he visits Capitol Hill with APRO's legislative team to make a difference in the way RTO is seen in Washington D.C., and has even earned the 2023 Emerging Leader Award for his efforts. Listen in on how Josh doesn't let his past control his future. You don't want to miss this!

Don't forget to subscribe and help support the podcast if you like the content.
Visit the website at www.thertoshowpodcast.com.

Sponsored by: APRO , Vox-POP-Uli, and Dialectic.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

In todays fast pace sales environment current RTO companies marketing has to be just as fast to keep up. Sales ideas and planning need to be forward thinking and agile to say the least. County Side Rentals DBA Rent 2 Own has been doing just that. Marketing Director Jess Mahon takes us through the ups and downs of Rental industry sales approach, tells us what to do to stay in the customers purchasing sights, and what has and has not worked during her time at Rent 2 Own in Ohio.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

In Part 2 of this conversation with 23-year rent-to-own industry veteran Jason Winters, Pete Shau and Jason dig into the economic forces reshaping the RTO industry right now — and what rent-to-own operators, district managers, and store managers need to do differently to stay ahead of them.

The episode opens with a frank discussion about inflation, rising housing costs, and how shifting customer spending habits are changing the rent-to-own customer base in real time. Jason's take is counterintuitive but grounded in experience: economic downturns and tighter household budgets have historically pushed more customers toward RTO, making the industry more recession-resistant than most — but only if operators stop waiting for foot traffic to return and start going out to find customers where they actually are.

From there, the conversation gets into one of the most important and underserved topics in rent-to-own store operations: RTO delivery driver compensation. Jason makes the case — backed by examples from Bucky's and Amazon — that the rent-to-own industry is consistently undervaluing the one position that has the most direct customer contact. If the delivery tech is now the face of your store, the last person in the customer's home, and the individual responsible for explaining the rental agreement, setting up the merchandise, and making a lasting first impression, then paying that position at the bottom of the market is a direct investment in higher credit, worse Google reviews, and lower customer retention across your entire rent-to-own portfolio.

Pete and Jason also explore how automated RTO collections platforms — like the one introduced by Payd at RTO World 2023 — fit into this evolving landscape, not as a replacement for human relationships but as a tool that frees up store teams to focus on growing the business instead of chasing payments. Jason draws the comparison clearly: there are no more Blockbusters, no more Red Boxes, and the RTO operators who treat new technology as a threat rather than a tool are already falling behind.

The episode closes with a conversation about what great rent-to-own leadership development actually looks like in today's market — investing in the people around you, raising the minimum standard, and building teams where every person, from the delivery driver to the district manager, understands why the work they do matters.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

What does it take to develop rent-to-own leaders who go on to become district managers, regional managers, and multi-unit operators? In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Pete Shau sits down with Jason Winters — a 23-year rent-to-own industry veteran who spent over a decade as a district manager under the Rent-A-Center umbrella, including roles at Impact RTO Holdings and Acceptance Now — for one of the most candid and experience-rich leadership development conversations ever featured on The RTO Show Podcast.

Jason's story starts the way many in the RTO industry do: as a delivery driver in a white shirt and tie, working three jobs before a $13-an-hour opportunity at Rent-A-Center changed everything. From that entry-level start, he went on to run nine different store locations as a general manager — urban, rural, turnaround, and flagship — before ascending to the district manager level, where over the next 13-plus years he developed ten individuals who went on to become district managers themselves. That track record of rent-to-own leadership development is what makes this episode essential listening for any operator, GM, or aspiring multi-unit manager in the RTO industry.

Pete and Jason dig into what actually separates a great rent-to-own store manager from a great district manager, why the jump to multi-unit management is less about knowledge and more about mindset, and why being present in fewer stores almost always outperforms managing a bloated district from a distance. Jason also introduces the concept of the "emotional bank account" — why investing in your people before making demands of them is the foundation of every high-performing RTO store team.

The conversation gets into one of the most honest leadership lessons you'll hear on this podcast: the story of Jason's biggest mistake as a GM — taking over a thriving thousand-account store and managing it down by 200 agreements in a matter of months because he was too rigid to understand how the previous manager's methods were actually working. It's a masterclass in why rent-to-own store takeovers require patience, observation, and humility before action.

Jason also introduces the origin of his now-famous "Jeff'd Up" story — a training concept built around merchandise handling, product depreciation, and delivery standards that reframes how RTO delivery techs understand the true cost of careless handling to a store's P&L and reputation.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     We found one of the best places in RTO on how to train sales leaders and that's at Majik University. Joe Luczak the Director of Sales at Majik gives us some insight on what makes Majik one of the best places to work in PA and what makes them stand out in the RTO Industry. There are classes, tactics, and view points that only someone truly dedicated to sales can give! 

www.thertoshowpodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     We revisit the RTO World 2023 San Antonio convention with Charles Smitherman APRO's one and only new CEO! Charles talks about the amazing learning tracks, how to become a speaker at the convention, and even the ups and downs of the CEO challenge that he may or may not have lost. Plus, we now know where the next APRO RTO World location will be for 2024, and you wont believe what sunny City and State they chose! Listen in for the best insights on the convention and even register for a chance to be a part of the APRO RTO World Webinar recap happening Tuesday 10/10/2023. Go register at RTOHQ.com

www.thertoshowpodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

The rent-to-own industry is changing faster than ever — and the operators who don't see it coming are the ones who will be left behind. In this episode, Pete Shau sits down with Joseph Kopser, keynote speaker at APRO's RTO World 2023 in San Antonio and author of Catalyst: Leadership and Strategy in a Changing World, for one of the most forward-thinking conversations ever featured on The RTO Show Podcast.

Kopser brings a rare perspective to the rent-to-own industry discussion — 20 years as an Army Ranger, a career in transportation technology that led to a rideshare platform acquisition by Mercedes-Benz, a run for U.S. Congress, and years of building and advising companies through his firm, Greyline Group. When he speaks about adapting to rapid change, navigating disruption, and building agile organizations, it's not theory — it's lived experience across some of the most demanding environments in the world.

Together, Pete and Joseph dig into what it really means for rent-to-own businesses to be both adaptable and agile in today's market — two concepts that sound similar but demand very different skills from RTO store managers, district managers, and company leadership. They explore why challenging your assumptions about your customer base, your business model, and your competition is the most important strategic exercise any RTO operator can do heading into the next 12 to 18 months.

The conversation gets into the future of brick-and-mortar rent-to-own retail, the growing role of online RTO platforms, the shift in walk-in customer traffic, and why emerging RTO technology — including automated collections platforms like Payd — may fundamentally change how rent-to-own businesses manage customer relationships and grow their portfolios. Pete also draws parallels between the evolution of RTO payment technology and the broader lessons of companies like Kodak and Blockbuster, which failed not because the technology beat them, but because their leadership refused to adapt.

From cross-training RTO store teams and empowering frontline employees to think beyond their job title, to identifying untapped customer segments like college dorms and military barracks, this episode challenges every rent-to-own operator to stop assuming the future will look like the past — and start building for the customer base that's already forming beneath their feet.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     This year at the APRO's RTO World San Antonio 2023 convention I was fortunate enough to be a speaker during the education sessions. I was speaking about Standing out above the crowd and ways to do that. Here is a recap of that class that I have titled for the podcast "Ahead of the curve!"

     Another mile stone to mention is that the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations or better known as APRO has become the Prime sponsor of The RTO Show! That's right we have teamed up to bring the RTO Show to you with as much news, education, interviews and fun as we can muster! Enjoy!

Catch me on Social Media at The RTO Show on FB (or) the-rto-show on Instagram and see whats new at www.theRTOshowPodcast .com.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     APRO's own CEO Charles Smitherman talks with us about the benefits of being an APRO member, how APRO affects the RTO industry, and some of the perks the Association for Progressive Rental Organizations has like Scholarships and the Disaster Relief Fund. Also, we get Charles to give us a slight look at what we can expect to see at the RTO World Convention in San Antonio, TX 2023. 

www.TheRTOshowPodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     We finally get to sit down with Paul Metivier FRDA President and Vice President of Impact RTO Holdings and discuss the 2023 FRDA meeting in Tampa, FL, the purpose and reason for the FRDA, and how Paul seems to manage all of this while being the VP over 79 stores. Paul has been in the RTO industry for 2 decades so sit back while we discuss how he sees the FRDA in the future and how he will leave his mark on the board.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Breaking news!! Only on The RTO Show! 

     We chat with Richard Formoe the CEO and Co-founder of Paydit.com about their new automated collections platform called RTO2! This AI powered software has the ability to schedule services and pickups, negotiate commitments, and even help with new or add on sales. All while working 24/7 to allow the operator more time to grow the business. Seem to good to be true? Listen to this special podcast and find out because this is the only place to get this new information before it's full launch at RTO World 2023 San Antonio, TX.

www.TheRTOshowPodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     In RTO we are always looking for something that will catch the eyes of our consumers. Who better than Keith Brock from Dialectic the Rookie Vendor of the Year to show us those products. Dialectic is known the world over and with an RTO veteran with 20+ years of RTO experience its a win win. 

www.TheRTOshowPodcast.com

Pete@TheRTOshowPodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     Castle Pawn and Rentals in Arkansas is trailblazing a new way to RTO with the addition of pawn, and all this while being under the same roof! Think pawn was the enemy of RTO? Well, think again. Ben McCauley talks about the advantages of pawn and RTO under one roof and after this podcast you might just think about it differently yourself. With great advice and words of wisdom this is a podcast to remember.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Talking to The Man, The Myth, The RTO legend Mike Tissot current TRIB President and President of Countryside rentals in Ohio. We like to call Mike the Czar of RTO but truthfully he is a 2nd generation RTO pillar of the community and he gives us great advice, insight, and knowledge about TRIB and RTO in general. In this podcast you can hear how he juggles the day to day operations from the Rent 2 Own brand to his many other duties with TRIB. If you've ever wanted to know how someone becomes so beloved in their industry then sit back and take notes.

Sponsored by APRO

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Season 3 is finally here and we open it up with the Store Tour Challenge set up by none other that Mike Tissot himself!

This one is a great way to look out for the ways to get your store ahead.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     The end of season 2 comes with some heavy news... Podcaster and founding member Danny Lastra is leaving the show and this will be his final RTO Show podcast as he changes career's and leaves the RTO industry behind (for now) and heads off in another direction. We recap, we remember, and we say a fair well to Danny and wish him well but we also remember some of our favorite episodes and give some insights into season 3! Where is it all headed?! Listen and find out more!

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     The RTO industry has seen its fair share of employees come and go but how many of those could have been avoided? Want to know how to evolve with the current times? Tired of hiring only to lose the new recruit in weeks or months? We wanted to know to and we think retention interviews are the way to go. Here is Pete's thought on the matter.

www.TheRTOshowPodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Host's Danny and Pete review the RTO Monday framework and go over why Monday's can be a make or break day. Are they really that super important...?  We talk about what to do on Monday's and why you might think you need to have a Monday Mind Set.

www.TheRTOshowPodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Pete talks about the advantages of role playing different scenarios at the work place and different ways to role play.  Training this way gives a huge advantage for the employee and the employer giving everyone the chance to improve on the customer service skills and learn a new thing or two.

www.TheRTOshowpodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

             Pete travels to the "Meeting of the Minds" TRIB show in Atlanta where we see new product, old friends, and have good conversation on RTO. Danny is MIA this time as we can't always be in one place at one time so we get an OG view of events and fun.

www.TheRTOshowPodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Pete and Danny kick things off with a reminder that tax refunds don't all arrive at once — the IRS opened filing on January 23rd, with Earned Income Tax Credit refunds arriving around February 28th and the filing deadline falling on April 18th. That means stores need to be ready and ramped up now, not waiting for the rush.

On the collections and retention side, the guys share a lineup of practical strategies: always get delinquent accounts caught up before discussing payouts, consider offering customers two months paid ahead instead of paying out entirely, and don't be afraid to make creative deals to keep customers in the door. As Pete puts it, "a little lost now could be a lot gained later." Danny adds that tax season is also the perfect time to evaluate your account managers — if they can't collect now, how will they perform in the slower summer months?

The conversation shifts to maximizing revenue through retail cash sales, accessories, and counter add-ons. Stream boxes, robot vacuums, air fryers, gaming computers, and the upcoming PS5 VR system all get the spotlight as high-potential items to push this season. The hosts also weigh in on e-bikes and e-scooters — a product both stores have largely stepped away from due to service and return issues — and invite listeners to share their own experiences.

The episode wraps with a preview of the TRIB Group's Meeting of the Minds 40th Anniversary show in Atlanta, Georgia, where Pete will be representing the RTO Show. Danny won't be able to make it, but encourages the RTO community to attend, network, and share what they learn.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     Our first interview finally out and ready for consumption! Get some great advise from someone who has been doing RTO for almost 2 decades. We get answers to questions like 1. How to make it in this industry? 2. Advice on hiring and training 3. The differences between pre-pandemic and post pandemic RTO and how to tackle those differences. This is an interview you don't want to miss!
*Disclaimer - this was our 1st out of studio interview and of course we had complications out of the gate with George's Mic. Once you get to the 18:15 mark we get it fixed and the rest is history. Thanks for understanding!

www.TheRTOshowPodcast.com
George Jaramillo
Chris Mueller

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

   Danny and Pete go to Las Vegas to one of the largest furniture shows in the country to find the new and best deals to bring back to the Tampa Bay area stores. Here are some insights on what to look for, who should see it, and how to navigate this humongous show. Plus some night life activity and do and don't when it comes to new drinks. Thanks to CPL Group and Biscayne Bedding for an amazing time!

www.TheRTOshowPodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     Making a master piece requires creativity and putting it together requires structure. When you have the 1-2 punch there is no limit to the growth potential. We all need hard workers who follow rules but giving them the advantage to use their creative ideas will set you're RTO brand apart from the rest.

www.theRTOshowPodcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

We always want to win because lets face it who plans to fail, but what happens when you have a set back. The RTO team discuss failures and how to use them as stepping stones to success. We can't win them all but we can use all of them to be the best at what we do. Follow Danny and Pete through some tough times and learn how to use that to be as prosperous as ever! Go to the website www.TheRTOshowPodcast.com or email us at pete@thertoshowpodcast.com or Danny@thertoshowpodcast.com and leave us your thoughts.

Max Hernandez: Who said what?!
Subject by: Radames Robles

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

With the new year upon us its time to make the sure we are in it to win it and it starts with the sale... but first you have to close it. We offer insight on how to keep your eye on the ball and close the sale. Visit us at www.TheRTOshowPodcast.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for Podcast updates!

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

We are back from Vacation! Season 2 has started with Setting Goals! Here are a few things that can help you set goals and help you go from one win to the next. We want you to celebrate your wins and learn from your losses to set the sites on bigger and better things. 

Visit us on the web at www.TheRTOshowPoadcast.com

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

This is the last podcast for the 2022 year and for season 1. We review the episodes, say what our top picks are, and the new ideas and different things that are coming up in 2023. There is a lot of next season information that you don't want to miss!

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

     We are near the end of the year and we want to open up about how we are going to enter the next year, what we haven't gotten 100% right yet, and what we are going to do to fix that. No one is perfect especially us. So we discuss what that means for us and get it all off our chests before we go into the next year and Season 2 of The RTO Show. Have a great Christmas everyone!

Mention:
Larry P. 

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

We cover the different ways to train and what the differences are so that you can use the best form that works for you and your team. Employees are our biggest assets so lets get them prepared for success. 

Show Shout outs:
Jay Roberts
www.RTOtrainer.com
Christian and Christopher AKA "The Twins"

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

There is a point to make that when you do something you should always put your own spin on it. Well, we discuss how to do just that and ways to make your store shine like a lighthouse on a foggy morning. Standing out in a good way can give you the edge on getting ahead of the competition and making a name for yourself in this amazing industry. Enjoy and remember charisma goes very far!

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

We discuss the sweet spot of comfortability and productivity when you are in your ideal place as far as the number of customers and with the stores reoccurring revenues. We also cover how to grow with the business and leaving your sweet spot behind you to make a new home with growth and success. Where is your sweet spot and has being too comfortable stopped you from going further?

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

We discuss the biggest sales day of the year and what you can look forward to this year. Its been a difficult year but this is the day we prepare for and in RTO its about the customer, the interaction, and the fun. We enjoyed discussing Black Friday and we want you to as well. Remember to look up the website at www.TheRTOshowPodcast.com or email us at Pete@thertoshowpodcast.com or Danny@thertoshowpodcast.com

George Jaramillo - Great Rooms
Frank R - Great Rooms

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

While Danny is out on vacation I bring in Teddy Kirvin a Regional with RTO National to discuss how to turn a slow day into a productive one. Looking at this from a new point of view listen to how we fix slow to GO!

Teddy Kirvin
Billy
Danny on vacation

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Ask any experienced rent-to-own operator what separates a thriving store from a struggling one, and eventually the conversation comes back to the same position — the delivery tech. In this episode, Pete Shau and Danny make the case that the rent-to-own delivery driver is one of the most undervalued, underestimated, and underinvested roles in the entire RTO industry, and that fixing how you hire, train, and empower your delivery team may be the fastest path to growing your rent-to-own store operations.

The delivery tech is the last face a customer sees. They're in the customer's home. They're the ones setting the tone for whether that customer makes their next payment, refers a neighbor, or never comes back. Pete and Danny break down exactly what traits to look for when hiring RTO delivery drivers — from physical capability and mechanical aptitude to customer service mindset, area knowledge, route optimization, and collections awareness — and why personality matters just as much as a clean driving record.

They share real stories from the field, including how a sharp-eyed Rent King driver in Winter Haven spotted a customer loading a U-Haul on a scheduled pickup day and prevented a potential skip — saving the store time, money, and merchandise. These are the moments that define what separates a great rent-to-own delivery technician from someone just moving furniture.

Pete and Danny also dig into how to structure the driver role for maximum impact — including building a lead driver position to improve team direction, offering driver spiffs tied to sales referrals and upsell opportunities, involving delivery techs in delivery scheduling decisions, and using route planning strategies that improve time management and increase the number of completed deliveries per day.

The episode also highlights Magic Rent to Own's recognition as one of Pennsylvania's best workplaces in 2022, making the point that great rent-to-own workplace culture extends all the way to the driver's seat — and that stores like Magic, led by Dan Fisher, are showing the rest of the RTO industry what it looks like to invest in every level of the team.

If your rent-to-own store is struggling with customer service scores, collection field visits, delivery efficiency, or inventory accountability, this episode will have you looking at your driver seat differently by the time it's over.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Taking over a rent-to-own store as a new general manager is one of the most challenging transitions in the RTO industry — and most new GMs walk in without a real playbook. In this episode, Pete Shau and Danny draw from their combined experience across more than a dozen rent-to-own store takeovers to give new and aspiring RTO store managers the honest, practical advice nobody sat down and gave them.

This episode was inspired by a real listener — Vinny Safey, a new GM at Buddy's Home Furnishings in Tampa, Florida — and the advice Pete and Danny deliver is the kind that only comes from years of managing RTO store operations, leading multi-unit rent-to-own teams, and learning hard lessons in real stores with real stakes.

They cover the mistakes that sink new GMs in the first two weeks — including why walking in guns blazing, dismissing what came before you, and making immediate procedural changes is one of the fastest ways to lose your team before you've even earned their trust. Instead, Pete and Danny lay out a step-by-step approach to the new GM takeover: how to evaluate your staff, conduct one-on-one employee meetings, complete a full inventory audit, check your delivery vehicles, tackle delinquent accounts, and become the face of your rent-to-own location in the community.

They dig into the importance of RTO store culture, daily coaching, positive reinforcement, and holding employees accountable without creating a toxic work environment — especially when managing millennials and Gen Z employees who expect transparency and respect in return for their effort. They also make the case for why new GMs should start recruiting immediately, even when fully staffed, and why building your bench is just as important as fixing today's problems.

The episode closes with three fundamentals every new rent-to-own GM needs to master — prioritization, time management, and training — shared through a real email exchange with RTO Trainer Jay Roberts, and a personal story about the DM who shaped Pete's entire management philosophy through brutally honest feedback.

If you're stepping into your first GM role, taking over a struggling RTO store, or mentoring someone who is — this episode belongs at the top of your list.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

The rent-to-own industry has always been built on relationships — but the place where those relationships now start has changed dramatically. In this episode, Pete Shau and Danny break down exactly how RTO stores and operators can stop leaving customers on the table by ignoring the most powerful and trackable tool available in rent-to-own digital marketing today: social media.

This isn't a surface-level conversation about posting a few deals on Facebook. Pete and Danny go deep on platform strategy, content philosophy, and the mindset shift every RTO operator needs to make to compete in the digital age. From TikTok and Instagram Reels to email newsletters and web lead conversion, this episode maps out the full digital marketing funnel for rent-to-own businesses of every size — and why your rent-to-own website strategy needs to function as your new digital showroom.

They break down which platforms reach which generations and why targeting only one is leaving money on the table when four generations are actively buying right now. They talk about why entertainment, not promotion, is the key to building rent-to-own brand awareness, why hashtags and trending challenges matter more than most RTO operators realize, and how grassroots marketing and digital marketing work best when used together — not in place of each other.

Pete and Danny also tackle one of the most overlooked pieces of the puzzle: response time. Whether it's a comment on a reel, a Facebook message, or a rent-to-own web lead, the speed at which your team responds is now a direct factor in whether you close the sale. They even make the case for a position most RTO companies haven't considered yet — a dedicated social media manager — and explain why closing web leads, not just foot traffic, is where rent-to-own customer acquisition is heading.

Drawing from their own experience building the Rent King video content strategy from the ground up — camera shy and all — Pete and Danny offer an honest look at what it actually takes to get started, get better, and drive real RTO store growth through content marketing. If your store is still relying only on mailers and door knocking, this episode is your wake-up call.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

You've made the call to replace. Now comes the harder part — finding the right person to fill that seat. In this episode, Pete Shau and Danny pull back the curtain on how two veteran RTO district managers actually conduct interviews, and why most hiring managers are asking the wrong questions.

With nearly 30 years of combined experience conducting interviews, attending job fairs, and building teams across multiple locations, Pete and Danny lay out 10 interview questions designed to cut through the rehearsed answers and get to who's really sitting across from you. These aren't surface-level questions — they're conversation starters engineered to reveal core values, work style, stress tolerance, and long-term fit.

The episode goes beyond just the questions themselves. Pete and Danny dig into the how — how to make a nervous candidate comfortable enough to be honest, how to push past the politically correct answers, when to role-play on the spot, and what a candidate isn't saying that might matter just as much as what they are.

Danny also introduces what he calls the Triangle of Success — one of the most revealing and disarming questions he asks every candidate, regardless of the position. It's simple, philosophical, and tells you more about how to motivate and retain someone than almost anything else in the interview.

The episode closes with three bonus tips that Pete and Danny swear by — including one simple test they use at the end of every interview that instantly reveals whether the person sitting in front of you has the integrity to be trusted with your store.

Whether you're a store manager hiring your first account manager or a district manager building out a bench, this episode is the hiring playbook the RTO industry doesn't talk about enough.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Nobody talks about this part. The long hours, the missed recitals, the stress you carry home without realizing it, the relationships that bend — and sometimes break — under the weight of a demanding career in rent-to-own. In this episode, Pete Shau and Danny get real and personal about what life in the RTO industry actually costs you outside of the store.

This topic was suggested by a listener — Rick McCaffrey, a local store manager — and it clearly hit a nerve. Between the two of them, Pete and Danny bring nearly 30 years of lived experience to a conversation that most people in the industry think about but rarely say out loud.

Pete opens up about missed milestones with his daughters, a marriage that didn't survive the demands of the business, and the hard-earned wisdom that balance isn't optional — it's survival. Danny reflects on 17 years with his wife Melissa, what it took to make it work, and the one agreement they made that changed everything about how he shows up at home.

Together they dig into the unique pressure points that RTO professionals face — the hours that bleed past store closing, the stress that follows you into dinner, the friendships forged in the trenches of this industry, and the community of customers who become a second family whether you planned for it or not. They also tackle the physical and mental toll that rarely gets discussed: what happens to you when the job demands everything you've got.

This isn't a doom-and-gloom episode. It's an honest, grounded conversation about how to protect what matters most while still giving everything to a career you love. If you've ever snapped at your kids on a bad sales day, missed a family event for a floor push, or found yourself mentally at the store while sitting at the dinner table — this one's for you.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Growing a rent-to-own customer base isn't just about getting people through the door — it's about what happens before, during, and long after that first visit. In this episode, Pete Shau and Danny deliver a practical, no-fluff playbook built from nearly three decades of combined RTO experience that every store manager, account manager, and district manager needs to hear.

The seven tips they cover span the full customer journey — from the culture you build inside your store, to how you show up in your community, to the digital presence that younger customers are judging you on before they ever walk in. Some of these tips will feel like common sense. Others might make you rethink how your team is operating right now.

But here's the one thing Pete and Danny make crystal clear: you can execute the first six tips perfectly and still not grow — if you're dropping the ball on tip number seven.

Whether you're running a single location or overseeing multiple stores, this episode will have you looking at your numbers, your team, and your process differently by the time it's over.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

The hosts agree: there's no universal time frame. Some decisions are clear within a week. Others take 90 days or two years. The key distinction Danny draws is "will do" vs. "won't do" — a training issue can be fixed; an attitude problem usually can't. Pete's approach leans on data and documentation, while Danny leads with instinct and energy. Both agree: always follow your gut.

The Brady Rule — Veteran vs. Rookie

Inspired by a conversation with Mike Skehan, a 15-year Buddy's Home Furnishings division manager overseeing 43 stores, Pete and Danny tackle the classic dilemma: do you stay loyal to the reliable veteran, or bring in the high-potential rookie? Their take — keep the rookie on the bench as motivation for your existing team, and never be afraid to make the tough call when the business demands it.

Lean vs. Green: Who Do You Hire?

The episode introduces the "lean vs. green" framework — experienced RTO hires who come with old habits versus brand-new employees who are a blank slate. Both have tradeoffs. The lean hire is quicker to accountability; the green hire takes longer to develop but can be shaped exactly how you need. Best recruiting sources for green talent: Walmart, Target, and call centers — environments that already develop time management, quota awareness, and people skills.

Bench or Cut? Handling Burnout

Sometimes retain-or-replace isn't about performance — it's about burnout. Pete and Danny discuss the nuance of stepping a GM back without losing them entirely, using a sports analogy: do you bench the player or cut them from the team? The answer depends on loyalty, tenure, and whether the person stepping in is outperforming the one who stepped out.

The Bottom Line

Every retain-or-replace decision is situational. Document performance, have honest conversations, avoid blindsiding people — and at the end of the day, trust your gut. Pete and Danny invite listeners to share their own take and vote on the topic via email.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

In this fired-up episode, Pete Shau and Danny challenge every rent-to-own operator, store manager, and district manager to tear off the mental ceiling they've placed on their own potential. Inspired by Dan Fisher, Pat Hartman, and Ray Adams of Magic Rentals and their legendary Two Million Dollar Club session at RTO World 2022, Pete and Danny break down what it actually takes to stop thinking like a million-dollar store and start building like a two-million-dollar one.

Belief Is the Foundation

The number one fundamental: you have to believe it's possible. Too many RTO managers cap their store's potential before the work even begins — blaming demographics, geography, or market size. Pete and Danny argue that the right mindset, paired with the right manager, can transform any location.

The Fundamentals of a Two-Million-Dollar Store

• Belief & hunger — without it, growth stops before it starts
• Customer rapport — being the face of your store, in person and online
• Leadership development — stop doing everything yourself; train people to manage, not just execute
• Store culture — buy-in has to happen every single day, from delivery techs to the GM
• Working Genius — pairing complementary personalities (planner + executioner, sales-minded + credit-minded) builds the strongest store teams
• Training your replacement — the key to moving up is developing someone to fill your shoes

Managing vs. Doing

One of the episode's sharpest insights: most RTO store managers know how to do the job — but not how to manage through it. Drawing from Dale Carnegie's How to Win Friends and Influence People, Pete and Danny discuss how honest feedback, accountability, and teaching others to lead is what separates good stores from great ones.

No Cap — In Every Sense

Pete closes with a personal commitment: his New Port Richey store, run by manager Chris, is going for two million dollars in 2023. The episode ends with a challenge to every listener — hold them accountable, set your own goals, and remember: the cap you place on yourself is the only one that matters.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Here's the rewritten summary trimmed by 1,293 characters:

RTO World 2022 Recap: Hello, Indy!

The RTO Show Podcast | Hosted by Pete Shau & Danny

In this lively recap, Pete Shau and Danny take listeners inside RTO World 2022, the rent-to-own industry's premier annual conference held August 10–12 in Indianapolis, Indiana. From educational sessions and leadership panels to rooftop ballrooms and bike cab rides through downtown Indy, this episode captures the energy and community that makes RTO unlike any other industry.

A Last-Minute Presentation That Delivered

Pete and Danny co-facilitated a session on managing in a post-pandemic world alongside Chrissy Livey of Impact RTO. Despite just three days to prepare, the session drew strong feedback — including praise from a 28-year industry veteran. The biggest lesson: be genuine, know your material, and speak from the heart.

Industry Highlights

• Chris Cale Sr. received the RTO Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by his son Chris Cale Jr., president of Trib
• Paul Mativier (VP of Impact RTO, President of FRDA) teased a future podcast appearance
• The Two Million Dollar Club session with Magic's team reframed what's possible for RTO store revenue
• Workforce wages, generational management, and vendor relationships dominated the conversation

What's Next

The FRDA meeting in Tampa and deeper dives into APRO, FRDA, and the Trib buying group are on the horizon.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

In this foundational episode of The RTO Show Podcast, hosts Pete Shau and Danny break down everything you need to know about the rent-to-own (RTO) industry — from how rental agreements work to the real-world benefits that set RTO apart from traditional retail. Whether you're a first-time customer curious about rent-to-own, an industry newcomer, or a seasoned RTO professional looking to sharpen your customer education skills, this episode is your go-to guide.

What Is Rent-to-Own? The Basics Explained

Pete and Danny open with the fundamentals: rent-to-own is a flexible retail model that bridges the gap between cash buyers and credit-based financing. Customers can access furniture, appliances, electronics, and more — with no credit check, no loan, and no long-term financial obligation. RTO agreements are structured around weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly, or monthly payment terms ranging from 6 to 24 months.

Understanding Your RTO Agreement: 3 Key Parts

The episode walks listeners through the three components of a standard rent-to-own agreement:

1. Full-Term Payments — Complete all scheduled payments and you own the product outright.
2. Same-as-Cash Option — Pay off the retail value within a set window (typically 3–12 months) and avoid additional costs.
3. Early Purchase Option (EPO) — Buy out your agreement after the same-as-cash period at a discounted rate — less than the full-term total, more than the same-as-cash price.

Top Benefits of Rent-to-Own

Pete and Danny highlight why millions of Americans choose RTO over big-box retail:

• No credit check — RTO doesn't impact your credit score or interfere with mortgage or loan applications
• Free delivery and assembly — included with no hidden fees
• Service and repairs included — normal wear and tear is covered at no extra charge
• Loaner products — if your item needs service, most RTO stores provide a loaner so you're never without
• Pre-leased (pre-loved) merchandise — quality refurbished products at significant discounts, still covered under service agreements
• Flexible payment options — upgrade, downgrade, or terminate your agreement at any time
• Same-day or next-day delivery — no 4–6 week wait times like traditional retailers

The RTO Community Difference

One of the episode's standout themes is the relationship-driven culture of the rent-to-own industry. Unlike impersonal big-box retail, RTO stores are staffed by community members who build long-term customer relationships, participate in local events, sponsor schools and little leagues, and genuinely invest in the neighborhoods they serve.

Industry Growth & Real Numbers

The hosts cite compelling industry data: the RTO market has grown from approximately 4.8 million customers a decade ago to an estimated 9 million customers today — a testament to the value and accessibility the industry provides.

Pete & Danny's RTO Origin Stories

The episode wraps with personal stories from both hosts about how they stumbled into the rent-to-own industry — and never left. Their combined 29 years of experience spans store management, multi-unit operations, and customer development, giving the podcast an authentic, insider perspective.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!

Welcome to The RTO Show.

I'm Pete Shau, and if you've spent any time in the rent-to-own industry — whether you're behind the counter, running a store, managing multiple locations, or leading from the home office — then you already know: this business gets in your blood.

I've spent over 20 years in this industry. From store management at Rent-A-Center to multi-unit operations at Rent King and Buddy's Home Furnishings, I've lived the day-to-day grind, the leadership challenges, and the moments that remind you why RTO is unlike any other business out there. And in August of 2022, I decided it was time to build something for the people who feel the same way.

That's what The RTO Show is — a front-row seat to the rent-to-own industry.

Every episode, we're bringing you real conversations with industry leaders, operators, vendors, and innovators. We'll dig into what's working, what's changing, and what you need to know to lead better and grow stronger. From legislative updates and product spotlights to the stories behind the businesses that are shaping RTO's future — if it matters in this industry, we're talking about it.

This isn't just a podcast. It's a community. And it starts right here.

So whether you're a seasoned vet or brand new to the industry — welcome to The RTO Show. Let's talk rent-to-own.

Support the show

Visit us at TheRTOshowPodcast.com and subscribe to our RTO industry dedicated Newsletter, listen to a podcast, and sponsor a show. Plus, look amazing with RTO Show merchandise!

We value your opinion. So share it with us by sending us an email to pete@thertoshowpodcast.com and be a part of the RTO Show community!