ADAM & SPENCER PLOUTZ - Elite Auto Experts
An amazing brother-duo who are not only passionate about repairing cars, but want to make a positive impact on their team, community, and families.
“Adam and Spencer have done a phenomenal job involving themselves personally and professional within the community.
They consistently go above and beyond to take care of their customers at Elite Auto Experts and are present in business and service organizations and events supporting the community (Vandalia-Butler Chamber of Commerce members, event sponsors, and Kiwanis Club of Vandalia-Butler founding members).
They are regular contributors to weekly Coffee With Champions workshops and help “iron sharpen iron” with other business owners and leaders within their local community.”
Nick Kavalauskas - District Leader at Primerica
Where do you work?
We are the owners of Elite Auto Experts.
Tell us a little more about your work?
Adam:
I like Elite Auto Experts because we are able to help my community. We are a transparent and honest automotive repair shop, which can sometimes be hard to find.
I am able to make a positive impact by being an active member in my community. I love being able to give back and provide a pleasant experience for customers.
I want to be a force for good. I want to be able to give back not only in my personal life but professionally has well.
Spencer:
I love the challenge of working on cars. Every day, it is something different and new. In my current position, it is exciting to mentor young auto technicians and guide them through a career path that I have successfully navigated.
It is rewarding to see employees achieve their goals and provide for their families because of the business that we have built.
What’s one thing you want people to know about you?
Adam:
I think perseverance and an unwillingness to give up sum me up pretty well. The good with the bad.
(Favorite phrase) "Spit, Grit, and a whole lot of duct tape.”
Spencer:
I want my clients to know how appreciated they are. We strive our absolute best to provide awesome service to every one who walks into our doors. When customers recognize that it is them and us on a team vs. the car, and not them vs. us, it makes the whole process go smoothly.
I want my employees to know how valued they are. They are the lifeblood of the business and the reason I can put 110% in day after day. If it wasn't for them, I would have gone back to a regular 9-5. The progress they make in life motivates me to be the best boss I can be.
My favorite phrase is "how you do some things is how you do everything." It reminds me to do everything to the best of my abilities. Excellence isn't the goal, it’s the standard.
What's the best advice you've ever received?
Adam:
"You only fail if you stop trying"
I don't view failure or mistakes as bad things but learning lessons. Fear of failure keeps people from trying in the first place. I would contribute my success to trying regardless of the possibility of failure.
Spencer:
I had a boss tell me I would be successful wherever I was. This gave me the confidence to take risks (like moving across the country), knowing that I would figure it out no matter what.
I approach every problem with the mindset of "nothing is impossible for me if I try hard enough" because of one small thing a manager has said to me.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
Adam:
Teleportation - No Travel Time
Spencer:
I would want to have a clear and decisive vision and the ability to execute every plan. I think I can do the most good for the most people by being successful.
If you could recommend a book, resource, or podcast, what would it be?
Adam:
The Bible
Never Split the Difference - Chris Voss
The Warrior Poet Way: A Guide to Living Free and Dying Well - John Lovell
Spencer:
Never Split the Difference By Chriss Voss.
I went through Dave Ramseys Financial Peace University in high school and set a lot of the groundwork for my early career, saving and investing.
I read Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki for the first time when I was 15, and it changed my outlook on finances.
I listened to a lot of Joe Rogan and then listen to further interviews on the guests he has on.
Anything by Alex Hormozi
Tell us about your family.
Adam:
I have a wife and 3 kids: one 5-year-old boy, one 8-month-old boy, and 1 little Girl on the way.
I love them all, and they are my greatest motivators.
Spencer:
I have been married for a little over a year to my amazing wife, Catherine. She is an RN working on the trauma floor at night. We have an 11 month old baby girl who is the greatest thing to happen to me since her mother. We are actively growing our family!
Do you have any interesting hobbies or fun facts about yourself?
Adam:
I like to fish, hunt, hike, and go on vacation with my family.
Spencer:
I live, eat, and breathe cars. I race autocross, and we attend many shows/events around cars. I'm an avid gym goer. But I would say cars are my true passion.
Where do you attend Coffee with Champions?
Vandalia-Butler Chamber of Commerce
What are some words you would use to describe the Champions program?
Adam:
Exciting, Thought Provoking, Informative, Inspiring.
Spencer:
Refilling. Refreshing. Insightful.
I liken it to the gym; you may not want to go, and you may be feeling lazy that day, but I always leave feeling more refreshed and energized.
You both are awesome! Thank you for being a Force for Good!
Lance Miller