American Operator

Stop spiraling over every decision.

In this video, JC breaks down a practical 4-bucket system used in the military for fast, confident decision-making — so you can stop overthinking and start operating. Whether you're leading a team or just trying to send that one text, this framework will change how you show up.

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This episode of American Operator follows the founder of Noble Joe’s, a coffee trailer born out of curiosity, hustle, and a few too many unknowns. From struggling to source espresso machines to the first time firing up the trailer, it’s a candid look at what actually happens when you build a business without experience.

What does it really take to build a business in the trenches — one plate at a time?

In this episode of American Operator, JC sits down with Robert Strong, Iraq veteran, chef and founder of Pretty Thai in Austin, TX. From late nights in a food truck to scaling a sauce brand through big name retailers, Robert breaks down the grit, risk, and resilience behind building something through his grief.

This isn't just another f...

Should you buy a business right now — or wait it out?

In this episode of American Operator, JC and Mainshares Founder, William Fry get honest about what it takes to operate during uncertain times. From interest rate pressure to market chaos, this one’s for every scrappy buyer, solo founder, or operator trying to make smart moves without burning out.

He breaks down:

• The myth of “perfect timing”
• Why some owners are quietly winning bi...

Escape the 9 to 5. Build a Legacy. | American Operator 🇺🇸🛠️

What drives someone to walk away from the “safe” path — the steady paycheck, the 401(k), the corporate ladder — to chase something harder… and more meaningful?

In this episode of American Operator, host Joseph Cabrera breaks down the 5 real reasons people leave traditional jobs to become small business owners. It’s not just about money.

If you...

Ever thought about buying a small business? James Jackson Leach has bought more than a few—and learned some hard lessons along the way.

In this episode of The American Operator Podcast, James shares the unfiltered reality of owning and operating small businesses, from a neighborhood butcher shop to a downtown bar. He opens up about the challenges no one talks about—like managing unpredictable employees, dealing with govern...

Buying a business is one thing—running it is another.

In this episode of The American Operator Podcast, TJ Brogan, owner of Washaroo Car Wash in Austin, Texas, shares his unexpected journey from tech sales to small business ownership. From turning around a struggling car wash, dealing with employee chaos, and learning what really matters when buying a business, TJ opens up about the realities of being an operator.

 In this episode, y...

What does it really take to run a plumbing business?

In this solo episode of The American Operator Podcast, Joseph Cabrera shares his experience spending a day in the field with Blue Ribbon Plumbing, Air & Electrical. Instead of talking with the owner, JC gets a firsthand look at the reality of the trades, riding along with veteran plumber Chris as he makes service calls, handles tough jobs, and delivers top-tier customer servic...

Building a business isn’t for the faint of heart.

In this episode of The American Operator Podcast, Brent Looby, founder of Desert Door Sotol, shares his raw and unfiltered journey of launching a distillery with no prior industry experience. From navigating the complexities of the spirits business to the mental toll of entrepreneurship, Brent gets real about what it takes to build something from the ground up.

 In this episode, you’l...

Patrick Courtney took an unconventional path—leaving a career in law to build and operate small businesses. In this episode of The American Operator Podcast, host Joseph Cabrera dives into Patrick’s journey from the courtroom to pest control and moving companies. They discuss the power of business partnerships, the challenges of scaling, and why trust is the real currency in business. Whether you’re thinking about acquiring a busin...

In this episode, JC sits down with Riley Siddoway, the ultimate "operator's operator," at the headquarters of Uphill Pursuits in Bozeman, Montana. From his early days exploring mountain peaks to a decade as a mountain guide, Riley shares the lessons learned in leadership, grit, and decision-making at high altitudes—both literal and figurative. 🏔️

Riley dives into his entrepreneurial journey, offering insights on buil...

n this episode of American Operator, JC sits down with Travis McAshan, founder and visionary leader of Glide Design, a trailblazing marketing and design firm based in Austin, Texas. Travis shares his entrepreneurial journey, from leaving the corporate grind to creating a company centered on “beauty and results.” Together, they dive deep into the power of user-centered design, the importance of continuous improvement, and the mindse...

In this special team room session of The American Operator, JC goes behind the curtain with Judd Goodrich, Head of Capital Markets, to explore the world of small business ownership, investment, and operations. Whether you're an aspiring owner-operator or a seasoned entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights and candid advice.

Judd shares his journey from Minnesota to the startup world, offering lessons learne...

In this episode of The American Operator, we sit down with Evan Ransome, a serial entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in consulting, startups, and leadership. From his unique childhood split between Ohio and Tokyo to his journey through the challenges of entrepreneurship, Evan shares valuable lessons on culture, team building, and maintaining work-life balance.

Discover the story behind Golden Home Management and how ...

In this special American Operator episode, JC goes behind the scenes with Cameron Scoresby, head of Operator Development at Mainshares. They discuss the journey Cameron’s taken from New Jersey to Texas, his early experiences with alternative education at Praxis, and what it means to build a career that balances independence with community. Cameron shares insights on the value of building a strong, supportive network, especially for...

In this episode, JC sits down with Dr. Daniel Brinchman, owner of Optometric Associates of Texas, for an in-depth discussion on the balance between leadership and management in business ownership. Dr. Brinchman shares the importance of valuing the groundwork laid by previous owners and how staying humble is essential in navigating a successful acquisition. Together, they also debunk the myth of passive income in business ownership,...

In this episode of American Operator, JC talks with Patrick Pullan, owner of Blue Ribbon Plumbing, A/C, and Electrical, about his unique journey from college student to dropping out and pursuing a career in plumbing. Patrick shares how he acquired his first plumbing company, the strategies he used to grow his business, and what he finds deeply rewarding about working in the trades. From overcoming early challenges to finding purpos...

In this episode, JC sits down with Tom Hough, owner of Fit Body Boot Camp in Richardson, TX, to dive into what it really takes to start your own business. Tom shares his journey, revealing how tough life experiences can actually give you a competitive edge as a business owner. Together, they explore the courage it takes to make the leap into entrepreneurship, the power of resilience in overcoming obstacles, and how adversity can sh...

In this debut episode of American Operator, JC sits down with William Fry, founder of Mainshares, to discuss the mission behind Mainshares and the Operator Network. They explore why keeping businesses in the hands of local owners benefits communities more than selling to large private equity firms, and they share insights into the future of American small businesses. Discover the power of local ownership and what it means for the n...