Sound Evolution

Houston, Texas

Josh Jesty, co-owner of Sound Evolution, has been in the industry for about seven years. He feels one of his unique talents is the ability to “spot an idea or notice the trend that will set us apart from the competition.”

Jesty said he hopes to see the business expand and acquire a newer building. “With the team we have now, and if we adapt to the conditions in the market, I am confident we’ll get there,” he said. “I always tell my guys at Sound Evolution, ‘Evolve or dissolve.’”

To that end, Jesty urged other retailers and 12-volt professionals to get involved in training events like KnowledgeFest, “and partner up with peers in our industry.”

While it can feel intimidating to ask for help or guidance, Jesty said, “Almost everyone has a few minutes to spare, and no one has said ‘no’ to us when we’ve approached them. Ever since the first KnowledgeFest we attended, we have seen improvements within the store and the attitudes of our employees.”

Additionally, Jesty said, “To retail store owners who are not technicians—listen to your well-qualified technicians in terms of equipment and installation accessories. They have more experience in the field and they can give you information that will help support and grow your business.”

As it continues to expand, Titan Motoring is looking toward an even brighter future: Owner Philip Lindsley hopes to open a second location in the near future, and is also considering franchising. Lindsley has been in the industry for 28 years and sees overcoming obstacles and multitasking as two of his greatest strengths. The company has learned from its mistakes over the years. Lindsley said one such mistake was “putting all of our eggs in one basket—whether it was a wholesale account, a client or an employee.”

Lindsley himself draws inspiration from a number of industry greats, including John Schwartz, Brian Layton and Ryan Friedlinghaus. “All of them have inspired me in many different unique ways,” he said. “John’s attention to detail has impacted how we view our business and our awareness of our showroom and customer experience. Brian’s processes, gratitude and treatment of employees has made a big impact on how and why we do things at Titan. Ryan from West Coast has changed my aspirations to be much grander than previously.”

Lindsley added that he feels other retailers can benefit from dealership work, and he encouraged other businesses to expand revenue streams “to plan for tougher times.”