Podcast
American Operator
Hosted by Joseph Cabrera · EN
See America’s small businesses the way they were meant to be seen — up close, on the ground, and through the eyes of the people who run them. American Operator documents the real stories of Main Street:
• We visit small businesses across the country.
• We highlight operators keeping their towns alive.
• We show what ownership actually looks like.
• And we expose the hidden cost of private equity roll-ups hollowing out local communities.
From family-owned shops to essential service businesses, from thriving main streets to towns devastated by outside ownership, we’re capturing the reality of American small business at a turning point.
Our mission is simple: keep America locally owned & operated by shining a light on the businesses, operators, and communities worth fighting for.
Subscribe and join the movement to rebuild, revive, and protect America’s small business backbone.
This is American Operator
Pod: @AmericanOperatorPodcast
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/theamericanoperator
31episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Stop Talking About Deals. Start Learning How to Run a Business | Joseph Cabrera | AO 60
Apr 1400:20:06Tap to summarizeEveryone today seems obsessed with buying businesses.Spreadsheets. Deal terms. Financing strategies.ETA. Search funds. Private equity playbooks.But almost nobody is talking about the thing that actually matters…Running the business.In this solo episode of the American Operator Podcast, Joseph Cabrera (JC) breaks down the growing disconnect between the world of business acquisition advice and the real world of small business ownership.Because the truth is simple:The deal might take a few months.But running the business will take decades.Most of the great businesses in America weren’t built by analysts, MBAs, or “finance gurus.” They were built by people with grit, courage, and relentless momentum — the kind of people who started businesses because they had no other option.In this episode, JC challenges aspiring owners to think differently about what it actually takes to step into the owner-operator seat.He talks about:Why focusing only on deals and spreadsheets is dangerousThe character traits that actually make great operatorsWhy relationships and community matter more than modelsThe difference between buyers and operatorsWhy small business success is more art than scienceWhat aspiring owners should really be studyingSmall businesses are the backbone of America — and the future of those businesses depends on operators who understand what’s truly at stake.If you're thinking about buying a business, this episode might change how you think about ownership entirely.Subscribe for more conversations with the people building, buying, and operating the businesses that keep America running.Join the MovementTactical insights and behind-the-scenes stories from America’s operators:Website: www.americanoperator.comAO In Action: https://www.youtube.com/@AmericanOperatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theamericanoperatorNewsletter: https://americanoperator.substack.comLocally Owned and Operated: https://www.locallyownedandoperated.org/
Transcribe →The Internet Is Lying About Buying a Business | TJ BROGAN | AO 59
Apr 701:02:26Tap to summarizeMost people talking about buying a business are focused on deals, numbers, and financial engineering…But what actually happens after the deal closes?In this episode of the American Operator Podcast, JC sits down with TJ Brogan—an owner and operator behind multiple businesses including car washes, food concepts, and more—to talk about the part no one teaches:What it really means to be an ownerWhy ownership is more about people than spreadsheetsHow to evaluate ANY business as a potential opportunityWhy you don’t need to “find your passion” to get startedThe mindset shift from employee → operatorTJ breaks down a simple but powerful framework:Start looking at everything through the lens of ownership.From walking into a business and asking “How would I make this better?” to surrounding yourself with people who’ve already done it—this episode is a practical playbook for anyone thinking about taking the leap.And maybe most importantly…You’ll hear why ownership isn’t just about making money—it’s about being part of something bigger:a community of operators who show up, help each other, and keep America moving forward.About American OperatorAmerican Operator is dedicated to telling the stories of small business owners and operators—the people who are the backbone of this country.Subscribe for more:Real stories. Real operators. Real ownership.Join the MovementTactical insights and behind-the-scenes stories from America’s operators:Website: www.americanoperator.comAO In Action: https://www.youtube.com/@AmericanOperatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theamericanoperatorNewsletter: https://americanoperator.substack.comLocally Owned and Operated: https://www.locallyownedandoperated.org/
Transcribe →From Iraq to Small Business Owner: The Brutal Truth About Buying Your First Business | Nathan Lenahan AO 58
Mar 3101:09:04Tap to summarizeWhat does it really take to buy and run a small business?In this episode of the American Operator Podcast, JC sits down with Army veteran and entrepreneur Nathan Lenahan to talk about the real, unfiltered reality of business ownership.Nathan shares the story of his first business acquisition — a diesel repair shop he bought with his twin brother that collapsed in less than 100 days, costing them their life savings and nearly pushing him out of entrepreneurship for good.Nathan Lenahan PodcastInstead of quitting, Nathan doubled down. He rebuilt from scratch, learned the hard lessons, and eventually helped acquire and grow multiple successful home-service businesses.In this conversation, Nathan and JC discuss:• Why veterans often thrive in entrepreneurship• The brutal early lessons of buying your first business• Why small business ownership can feel like “99% pain and 1% fun”Nathan Lenahan PodcastJoin the MovementTactical insights and behind-the-scenes stories from America’s operators:Website: www.americanoperator.comAO In Action: https://www.youtube.com/@AmericanOperatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theamericanoperatorNewsletter: https://americanoperator.substack.comLocally Owned and Operated: https://www.locallyownedandoperated.org/
Transcribe →If You Wanna Build a Business, Make Cortisol Your Friend | Jonathan Lusk | AO 57
Mar 2401:06:53Tap to summarizeWhat happens when a former Wall Street professional walks away — and goes back to building with his hands?In this episode, JC sits down with Jonathan Lusk — a former Goldman Sachs professional who grew up on a farm, built his own private wealth shop, and ultimately found himself back in the world of ranching and operating.This conversation isn’t about hustle culture.It’s about composure.They dive into:Why you need to stop forcing outcomes in businessBecoming “friends” with cortisol instead of avoiding stressHow to make big decisions without emotional volatilityThe role faith plays in leadershipHow to sell well — without pressure, manipulation, or desperationWhy neutrality is a competitive advantageJohnathan shares what Wall Street taught him, what the farm reinforced, and why operating under pressure requires steadiness more than intensity.From high-stakes finance to ranch land and entrepreneurship, this episode is about learning to stay grounded when everything feels urgent.Because real operators don’t eliminate stress —They learn to work with it.Join the MovementTactical insights and behind-the-scenes stories from America’s operators:Website: www.americanoperator.comAO In Action: https://www.youtube.com/@AmericanOperatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theamericanoperatorNewsletter: https://americanoperator.substack.comLocally Owned and Operated: https://www.locallyownedandoperated.org/
Transcribe →No One Knows What They Are Doing, So Act Like You Do I Joe Soelberg - AO 56 I
Mar 1701:08:38Tap to summarizeNo one knows what they’re doing.The difference? Some people decide to act anyway.In this episode of American Operator, Joe Soelberg shares the mindset shift that changes everything: confidence isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about taking ownership before you feel ready.From stepping into responsibility early to learning how to lead without a clear roadmap, Joe breaks down what it actually takes to build momentum when you don’t feel qualified, prepared, or certain.In this conversation, we cover:Why most leaders are figuring it out in real timeEven something as valuable as 3D/CGI architectural imaging is invaluable unless you can sell it.What is the real value in paying for professional marketing expertiseThe power of acting with conviction before you feel readyConfidence through repetition and responsibilityWhy waiting to feel “ready” will keep you stuckIf you’ve ever felt behind, unsure, or underprepared — this episode is your reminder that almost everyone at the top started the same way.They just moved first.Join the MovementTactical insights and behind-the-scenes stories from America’s operators:Website: www.americanoperator.comAO In Action: https://www.youtube.com/@AmericanOperatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theamericanoperatorNewsletter: https://americanoperator.substack.comLocally Owned and Operated: https://www.locallyownedandoperated.org/
Transcribe →Business Owners Will Respect You If You Do These 5 Things I Joseph Cabrera - AO 55 I
Mar 1000:22:38Tap to summarizeAre you constantly getting rejected by owners?In this solo episode of **American Operator**, we break down the **five things that actually earn trust and respect from legacy small business owners** — the kind of owners who’ve spent decades building something with their hands, their name, and their reputation.Because here’s the truth:These owners don’t sell to spreadsheets.They sell to people they respect.This episode covers:Look the part — show up like a normal, grounded human beingEarn the right to shoot straight — build real rapport before talking shopShoot straight — honesty over polishBusiness is personal — these companies are family, not assetsHumility through action — respect what they’ve built, don’t just say you doWe talk about instinct-driven operators, old-school owners who “feel” their way through decisions, and why respect matters more than ROI in many succession conversations.If you’re pursuing small business acquisitions or hoping to take the torch from a retiring owner, this is step one of understanding what they’re actually looking for.They don’t need to like you.They need to respect you.Join the MovementTactical insights and behind-the-scenes stories from America’s operators:Website: www.americanoperator.comAO In Action: https://www.youtube.com/@AmericanOperatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theamericanoperatorNewsletter: https://americanoperator.substack.comLocally Owned and Operated: https://www.locallyownedandoperated.org/
Transcribe →The Creator Of America’s Best Burger Chain I Patrick Terry - AO 54 I
Mar 301:09:36Tap to summarizeHow do you scale a fast-growing brand without losing your soul?In this episode of American Operator, we sit down with the team behind P. Terry’s Burger Stand to talk about building one of Texas’s most beloved food brands by doing the simple things the right way — every single day.This conversation dives into what it really takes to grow a values-driven business, why restraint can be a competitive advantage, and how long-term thinking beats short-term hype.This episode covers:The origin story of P. Terry’sBuilding a brand rooted in simplicity and qualityWhy company culture matters more than expansion speedLeadership lessons from the restaurant industryStaying disciplined as growth opportunities multiplyWhat small businesses can learn from doing fewer things betterFrom burgers to business philosophy, this episode is a masterclass in intentional growth, operational excellence, and staying true to your principles as success follows.If you care about brand building, local business, and creating something that lasts — this is one you won’t want to miss.Join the MovementTactical insights and behind-the-scenes stories from America’s operators:Website: www.americanoperator.comAO In Action: https://www.youtube.com/@AmericanOperatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theamericanoperatorNewsletter: https://americanoperator.substack.comLocally Owned and Operated: https://www.locallyownedandoperated.org/
Transcribe →You Learn By Getting It Wrong; Advice From A Rally Racing Champion I Texas Dave - AO 53 I
Feb 2401:30:58Tap to summarizeWhat if the best training for business leadership didn’t come from a boardroom but, from the racetrack?In this episode of American Operator, we sit down with Texas Dave to talk about how his background in racing and high-pressure competition shaped the way he builds businesses, leads teams, and takes responsibility when things go wrong.Dave shares how racing taught him discipline, preparation, risk management, and accountability, lessons he carried directly into entrepreneurship and day-to-day operations. This isn’t theory. It’s leadership forged under pressure, where mistakes cost real money and reputations are earned one decision at a time.This conversation covers:How racing became Dave’s foundation for business leadershipTranslating competition, preparation, and discipline into entrepreneurshipWhy accountability matters more when you own the outcomeTo build trust, you got to engage with your folks, on and off the trackLessons learned from failure, pressure, and high-stakes decision-makingWhy operators — not spectators — win in the long runThis episode isn’t about hype or shortcuts. It’s about applying hard-earned lessons from the track to business, ownership, and life, and showing up ready when it counts.If you’re interested in leadership shaped by experience, entrepreneurship under pressure, and what it really means to operate at a high level, this conversation will stick with you.Join the MovementTactical insights and behind-the-scenes stories from America’s operators:Website: www.americanoperator.comAO In Action: https://www.youtube.com/@AmericanOperatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theamericanoperatorNewsletter: https://americanoperator.substack.com
Transcribe →Why A Business Owner Decided To Audit The Government I Scott Fitzpatrick - AO 52 I
Feb 1700:49:39Tap to summarizeWhat does accountability actually look like in government — and why does it matter to everyday Americans?In this episode of American Operator, we sit down with Scott Fitzpatrick, Missouri State Auditor, for a candid conversation about transparency, public trust, and the role accountability plays in keeping communities and businesses strong.Scott shares his path into public service, why audits matter more than most people realize, and how responsible leadership impacts everything from small towns to state-level decision-making. This isn’t politics — it’s about stewardship, integrity, and doing the job the right way.This episode covers:- What a State Auditor actually does (and why it matters)- Accountability, transparency, and public trust- How leadership decisions impact local communities- The intersection of government, business, and responsibility- Why good systems protect taxpayers and small businesses- Lessons in leadership that translate far beyond politicsFrom rural communities to state government, this conversation highlights how strong leadership and clear accountability create stability — and why those principles are just as important in business as they are in public office.If you care about leadership, responsibility, and the systems that keep America running, this episode offers a rare look behind the curtain.Join the MovementTactical insights and behind-the-scenes stories from America’s operators:Website: www.americanoperator.comAO In Action: https://www.youtube.com/@AmericanOperatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theamericanoperatorNewsletter: https://americanoperator.substack.com
Transcribe →Petite Keep’s Shark Tank Success I Lindsay Mullenger I AO 51
Feb 1000:55:22Tap to summarizeWhat really happens after Shark Tank?In this episode of American Operator, we sit down with Lindsay Mullenger, founder of Petite Keep, to break down her journey from building a product-driven business to landing a deal on Shark Tank — and what success actually looks like once the cameras turn off.Lindsay shares the behind-the-scenes reality of Shark Tank, the pressure of pitching on national television, and how she’s navigated growth, manufacturing, and brand integrity while scaling a consumer product business.This conversation covers:- How Petite Keep started and why the product resonated- The real Shark Tank experience (before, during, and after the pitch)- What founders get wrong about “overnight success”- Scaling a product-based business without losing control… And doing it in the Midwest.- Lessons in resilience, leadership, and decision-making- What ownership really means when the stakes get biggerThis episode isn’t just about Shark Tank — it’s about building something real, being customer obsessed, staying grounded through growth, and learning how to operate when momentum finally shows up.If you’re a founder, aspiring entrepreneur, or curious about what it truly takes to turn an idea into a scalable business, this episode delivers an honest look behind the hype.Join the MovementTactical insights and behind-the-scenes stories from America’s operators:Website: www.americanoperator.comAO In Action: https://www.youtube.com/@AmericanOperatorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theamericanoperatorNewsletter: https://americanoperator.substack.com
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