Aaron Cash – President - Franchise Systems

I look forward to being together and strengthening our shared passion for Garage Living. I aim to provide valuable information, insights, inspiration, and direction while also listening, learning, and understanding more about each franchise partner. This collaborative approach will help us continue to elevate excellence across various business areas.
I am an avid fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and enjoy activities such as biking, jogging, hiking, and boating. I cherish great food, especially BBQ, and value quality time with family and friends.

Katrina Teimourabadi – Creative Brand Manager

Meet Katrina, a passionate designer whose heart beats for history and archaeology. Katrina is a content wizard with a million ideas buzzing in her mind. She's your go-to person for inspiration, motivation, and problem-solving. In a word, she rocks like a hurricane! —get it? ;) Don't miss the chance to have the most interesting conversations with her —ask her about her fascinating experience excavating at the historic site of the 9-day Queen, Lady Jane Grey!
This is Katrina's first Garage Living conference, and she’s thrilled to finally meet many of her colleagues in person.

Kevin Lamb – Director of Franchise Operations and Support

I am dedicated to finding the best ways to support our franchise locations and share in mutual growth and success. As I attend my third conference, I'm eager to collaborate and learn from everyone involved.
I am a passionate Toronto Maple Leafs fan who also loves golf and hockey. When it comes to food, nothing beats a perfectly cooked steak.

Corbee Dutchburn – Vice President Product Development and Supply Chain

I’ve been with Garage Living since 2019. This will be my third RiseUp conference, and I'm excited to see what this year has in store! Born and raised in Toronto, I’m passionate about skiing and never pass up the chance to enjoy some sushi. Looking forward to connecting with everyone and sharing ideas!

Michael Greco – Owner, GL Detroit

Excited to share what’s on the horizon for Garage Living next year! I'm a Green Bay Packers fan who enjoys golf, poker, and Italian food.

Chad Nelson – Owner, GL Nebraska

My life revolves around Garage Living! When I’m not working, I'm at our cabin, relaxing by the swim-up bar—it’s like a mini-vacation every weekend. I'm also lucky to have an amazing wife, both in life and business! My passions include cars and enjoying a cold beer. I'm a Buffalo Bills fan, and steak is my go-to meal. I’d love to hear more about how franchises handle challenges like finding a showroom or dealing with service issues, and how we can strengthen communication within our network.

Todd Hynes – Owner, GL London

Looking forward to learning and sharing with fellow franchise owners and team members. I'm a Toronto Raptors fan who loves golf, cars, boating, and, of course, bacon.

Conway Reimer – Owner, GL Dallas -North Texas

With a background in architecture and a 20-year career in healthcare, I’m passionate about woodworking, Oregon Ducks Football, and Thai food.

Mark Lenhart – Owner, GL Oklahoma City

I’m eager to gather ideas and best practices from other franchises to boost sales and profitability while building relationships with fellow franchisees. I’m a Sooners fan who enjoys fishing and appreciates all kinds of food.

Andrew Wilson – Franchise Business Coach

I’m excited to attend my second conference and eager to have discussions, gain new insights, and explore new ideas. Each conference offers a unique opportunity to expand my knowledge and connect with the Franchises, and I’m looking forward to making the most of this experience. 

I’m a car enthusiast with a passion for restoring and admiring classic vehicles. When I’m not working on my car or at shows, I’m cheering for the Dallas Cowboys and The Ohio State Buckeyes.

Matt Ziebro – Owner, GL Cincinnati

I’m excited to attend my first Garage Living RiseUp conference after 6 years with the company! Born and raised in Cleveland, I’m a huge Steelers fan, love playing tennis, and am passionate about generating multiple revenue streams. Looking forward to making new connections and meeting everyone!

Gary DiStefano – Director - Training and Development

With over 300 dives under my belt, I've spent nearly 12 days of my life underwater —who knew I'd trade my office chair for fins so often? Looking forward to surfacing some new ideas at this conference. P.S., I might be from Boston, but I promise not to dive too deep into the Bruins' latest season...unless you're interested!

Joseph Maino – Design Consultant, GL New Jersey

I'm a NY Jets superfan who's traveled all over the country on game days and a double cancer survivor. I've been with Garage Living for 1.5 years and attended one RiseUp conference. Born in Staten Island, NY, I’m all about football, BBQ and cooking, motorcycles, and travel. And of course, pizza is my go-to food!

John Pitera – Owner, GL New Jersey

I’m looking to gain any insights or guidance to help increase profitability and grow my business. I believe we need to focus on moving further upmarket. Born and raised in Staten Island, I’m a big Yankees fan and enjoy Harley Davidson motorcycles and collecting cars.

Theresa Nelson – Owner, GL Nebraska

I was an Omaha Police officer for 24 years where I did a lot of undercover work as a prostitute, and I was known to the vice unit as their #1... (fill in the blank) LOL. I mean where else do you think I met Chad! Haha! JK. I also did undercover drug buys, undercover rave parties and undercover MIP parties. People ask me why I wanted to be a cop, and I say, "because I like to drive fast and carry a gun!" 
I also have the most amazing business and life partner in Chad Nelson!

Paul Anderson – General Manager, GL Jacksonville

Hallo zusammen!
I played golf professionally before joining Garage Living, where I’ve been for 5 years. This is my third RiseUp conference, and I’m looking forward to connecting with fellow attendees and exploring new opportunities.
I was born in Germany and raised in Washington DC. My favorite sports team is the Redskins, and when I’m not working, I enjoy hitting the golf course. My favorite food? Crabs!
Looking forward to a great conference with all of you!

Anthony Capomolla – General Manager, GL Connecticut

I am a youth baseball and basketball coach and a father of 3. I am looking forward to meeting some new people and being able to converse in an open format.

Reid Sparling – Operations Manager, GL Vancouver

I want to meet all the new Franchise owners and put a face to some names. Something interesting about me, I come from a theatrical background and enjoy doing character voices like Mickey Mouse, Mario and Luigi, and many others.

Lauren Hynes – Design Consultant, GL London

I can't wait to meet and have great discussions with everyone and learn from one another!

Thomas & Karen Rutledge – Owner, GL Austin

Build new relationships with others in the company and pick up a few new tips on increasing profitability. Also learn more from others about how they are keeping their pipelines and schedules full for at least 8 weeks in order to sleep better at night.

Thomas Greschner – Owner, GL Palm Springs

To talk to fellow Franchise Owners on their business best practices.

Kevin Abraham – Owner, GL Winnipeg

I am looking forward to meeting and making connections with everyone. As a newer franchisee, learning how to deal with operational challenges like staffing and scheduling is a goal of mine. I have a background in law enforcement, with 15 years as a Police Officer. I’m married with 3 children so when I’m not at work my time is spent attending various sporting activities.

Cobb Pearson – Owner, GL Atlanta

Weekend without the kids :) Improve line dancing skills. Learn how to get better at running GL Atlanta from peers and company leaders!

Steven Hempel – Owner, GL Houston

Connecting with other franchisees.

Steven "Chase" Schmidt – Owner, GL Richmond

When I was younger, I was homeschooled (explains a lot!) because I got sponsored by a Snowboard Company to travel around with their equipment all throughout the West. By the time I was 18, I had been to over 40 mountains in the US and been dropped out of a few helicopters... even "survived" an avalanche... my parents didn't find out about that until 10 years later.

Kevin Jones – Product Manager

I'm looking forward to seeing everyone in person and reviewing all the new products we have been working on & getting franchisee feedback.

Richard Cunningham – Owner, GL Connecticut & Boston

I am looking to network with other franchise owners and learn some best practices in growing our business.

Joe Cerra – Design Consultant, GL Connecticut

Looking forward to meeting new people and gaining more knowledge.

Ericson Santana – General Manager, GL Southeast Florida

Looking forward to see everyone again and to speak with product development team about new ideas.

Marc Julien – Owner, GL Southeast Florida

Meet the other owners and learn more about what they are doing right.

Paul Fritz – Owner, GL Washington, D.C.

Hearing other successes from other locations. In my spare time, I enjoy being with friends and family.

Connor Giblett – Franchise Operations Coordinator

I've been lucky enough to live in South Africa and Australia for a few months as well as a year in Arizona.

My teams are the Toronto Maple Leafs, Blue Jays, and the Philidelphia Eagles. If I'm not watching sports then I spend most of my time playing baseball or out on the golf course. During the winter you can find me snowboarding on the weekends.

This will be my first time attending a Rise up Conference and I can't wait to see everyone in person.

Brian Davis – Design Consultant, GL Winnipeg

I am looking forward to meeting other members of the Garage Living Team. I have a goal to learn new sales techniques and strategies, which I will be able to take back to the Winnipeg market and apply the skills that I have learned at the Rise Up Conference. I am married with two kids which keeps me busy coaching them in their sports on the weekends, and I have 14 years of law enforcement experience.

Scott Liseno – Owner, GL Charlotte

I hope to make new connections with other owners, see some I've previously met, continue to learn more about GL and come away with some new ideas and insights. I also hope to have some fun.

Greg Selner – General Manager, GL Cleveland

Looking forward to learning about new products and sharing stories/best practices with other franchisees.

Aris Papadakos – Owner, GL Long Island

Looking forward to seeing what's in production and connecting with other owners.

Danielle Myers – Owner, GL Raleigh

Networking and further knowledge.

Bob Wiltfong – Emcee

Two truths and a lie:

* I once had a blind date with Vanessa Williams
* I ran a leg of the Olympic torch relay
* I've accidentally run myself over with a car

Daniel Albo – Owner, GL Toronto

Too much to list!

Jennifer Reimer – Owner, GL North Texas

I’m a mom of two and a proud holder of a motorcycle license! I’ve been with Garage Living for 6 years and am excited to attend my second RiseUp conference. Born and raised in Portland, I’m a big fan of Oregon Ducks Football. My hobbies include reading, art, photography, and gardening. Looking forward to connecting and learning more at this conference.

Garry Corts – Owner, GL Raleigh

Meet fellow franchise owners.

David Wolfe – Owner, GL Nashville

I’m excited to be attending my first Garage Living RiseUp conference after 4 years with the company! Born and raised in Florida, I’m a big fan of the Gators. I love traveling and boating. Looking forward to meeting everyone and discovering what this conference has to offer!

Kasey Klee – Account Manager, Axia Public Relations

I'm looking forward to finally meeting the Garage Living team in person, after many virtual meetings!

Wade Rowan – Vice President, Sandler Chattanooga

Wade Rowan has over 35 years of experience in sales, management, leadership, and training. He understands the importance of maintaining profitable sales while delivering the highest level of customer service to every client. As an experienced and gifted speaker, teacher, coach, and multi-year Sandler Platinum Award winner, Wade is passionate about creative thinking, positive development, encouragement, and growth within the Home Improvement and In-Home Services industries. 

During his service in the United States Marine Corps, Wade learned early on that orientation is key to success. He believes in first asking prudent questions to determine where you are, then creating a systematic plan of action to accomplish your mission. Over his many years in the Construction and In-Home Services industries, Wade further recognized the importance of applying consistent systematic approaches to make others' dreams come true.

Areg Haroutunian – Art Director

Garage Living Franchise stands out as an industry leader through our brand and creative vision. We’re dedicated to understanding and addressing the future needs of our franchise network. I want to hear from franchisees to identify their challenges and develop solutions that propel them forward.

Jesse Rosenberg – Content Creator

To capture great content and connect with more franchise owners.

Zak Miller – Director, Digital Solutions, SearchKings

I'm looking forward to connecting with franchise owners and helping their businesses grow through digital marketing and helping them understand their account performance.

Jeffrey DeAnna – Solutions Architect, Huble

Helping to clear up how all the new systems will work.

Lucero Liboreiro – Content Creator

Capture content for Garage Living.

Andrew Wallman – General Manager, GL Boston

Looking to network and learn about new products coming out.

Rusty Halm – Owner, GL Tampa

I've been with Garage Living for 4 years, and this will be my third RiseUp conference. Born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, I'm a big fan of Formula 1 Red Bull and Lightning hockey. In my free time, I enjoy running and participating in obstacle races. Looking forward to connecting with everyone and gaining new insights at this conference.

Phillip Halm – Design Consultant, GL Tampa

Looking forward to meeting everyone!

Dan Nausley – President, Sandler Chattanooga

Dan Nausley, President Sandler Chattanooga, is a seasoned expert in Management, Leadership, Executive Coaching, Sales, Communications and Customer Service with over 40 years of experience. Utilizing the renowned Sandler methodology, he specializes in introducing honest, no-nonsense approaches that drive results while encouraging individuals to apply it in a manner that is comfortable for them personally. 

Dan has revitalized countless organizations by developing unique, high-impact, customized strategies tailored for both emerging and established firms. As a leading voice in sales and leadership training, his philosophy is rooted in sound business practices, psychology and a holistic understanding of individuals and organizations. This unique approach improves professional skills and enriches personal lives, creating well rounded leaders and teams.

Eric Lizotte – Operations Manager, GL Ottawa

Eric has over a decade of management experience in the commercial/residential construction industry as well as the garage transformation industry. His commitment to effectively managing client expectations, teams, and his strong technical and product knowledge make Eric a key contributor to our success. Eric is always focused on the customer experience for the garage transformation life cycle from the initial consultation through completion. Eric works in the office to ensure smooth operations of the Franchise, as well as on site assisting with installations of slatwall and cabinetry when needed.

Steve Anderson – Co-Owner, GL Long Island

At this conference, I'm looking to connect with my fellow owners to explore new strategies for business growth, learn innovative techniques, and enhance our sales approaches. I'm also keen on expanding my network within the garage living community to share insights and best practices as we all continue to grow together.

Gary Kolek – Owner, GL Kansas City

My initial career was in law enforcement in the St. Louis area for 11+ years. In 2017, my family and I moved to Kansas City to open a crime scene clean-up franchise, Bio-One. We sold that business in 2022 and are now looking to open the next chapter of our lives with Garage Living!

Chris Barrett – Owner, GL Salt Lake City

I have a degree in Packaging Engineering from Rochester Institute of Technology. Typical question is what is a Packaging Engineering? My response is -what can you buy that doesn't come in a package? I spent 28 years in Pharmaceutical and Medical Device manufacturing focusing on Packaging, Automation, Distribution, Quality and Operational Excellence/Lean Manufacturing. Most recently I was Senior Director of Engineering for Teva Pharmaceuticals. I have multiple US patents related to Medical Device sterilization and Pharmaceutical Manufacturing. Early in my career I took a "break" from engineering to be a ski instructor in Vail, CO. I taught full-time for the first year then went back to engineering and taught part time in Vail for 5 more years. I am an adrenaline junky! Anything fast is fun! At least few times per year on Zoom calls with Kevin his first words are "what did you do to yourself this time"! I was not able to attend the meeting in Toronto last year because I broke my leg slalom skiing in Lake Powell right before the conference. I am doing my best not to get injured prior to Nashville. I am looking forward to meeting new GL people and reconnecting with other GL people!

Brian Kimpel – Install Manager, GL Salt Lake City

Looking forward to meeting everyone at my first RiseUp conference! I've been with Garage Living for 2.5 years and am thrilled to finally join in. Born and raised in Milwaukee, I'm a die-hard Brewers fan and spend my free time immersed in baseball. And if you’re ever in the mood for a unique meal, I’m always on the lookout for a good Hungarian sausage!