From quitting school at 16 to gracing the pages of Sports Illustrated, Rick Esterly's journey to becoming a top 1% auto upholstery craftsman is far from conventional.

Growing up in North Idaho, Rick felt the call of the great outdoors more than the classroom. BMX racing and hanging with older car enthusiasts eventually led him to drop out and pursue audio installation full-time. But it was the challenge of making custom panels look factory that really revved his engine.

Fast forward through failed shop attempts, debilitating injuries, and throwing away his own trophies - Rick's relentless drive has made him a force in the industry. He may shun the spotlight, but his work speaks volumes.

Today, Rick opens up about his triumphs and tribulations and why awards don't fuel his fire anymore. Discover how this humble master marries old-school work ethic with new-school tech, one 3D-printed dash at a time.

"I'm not the best there is, but I want to make my clients super happy. Every car I do, I do it as if it were my own." - Rick Esterly

In This Episode:

- Recap of recent events and partnerships

- Growing up a rebel in North Idaho

- From car audio to upholstery

- Challenges and success

- Winning NC's auto interior of the year contest

- Marriage struggles & refocusing priorities

- Winning the auto interior of the year contest

- Rapid fire hot seat Q&A

- Technology in the workshop

- Balancing tradition and modernity in design

- Encouragement for fellow trimmers

Connect with Rick Esterly:

Website: https://stitchwurx.com

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet:

- Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/

- Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/

What does it take to be a standout athlete and secure a future in college sports? Living and thriving in a competitive environment is no easy feat, especially when you're surrounded by talented peers. But today's guest has a unique story that sets him apart.

NC Shop Talk is thrilled to welcome Peter Pesansky, a senior at Tampa Jesuit High School and an incoming freshman football player at the University of North Carolina.

Peter's journey is nothing short of inspiring. From his impressive athletic family background to his recent NIL deal with NC Carpetbinding, Peter exemplifies dedication, hard work, and a winning mindset.

Peter's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of family support. His parents, both collegiate athletes, have instilled in him and his siblings a drive to excel in both sports and academics. Peter's achievements on the football field and in the classroom are a reflection of this upbringing.

In this episode, we dive deep into Peter's journey, his family's influence, and his future at UNC. We also discuss the exciting new NIL deal that Peter has signed with NC Carpetbinding, marking a new chapter for both Peter and the company.

“It's all up to you. It's not up to the coaches. It's all up to what you do yourself. I think you control what happens to an extent.” – Peter Pesansky

In This Episode:

- Family Influence: How Peter's athletic family has shaped his journey.

- Coaching and Mentorship: Insights into how Peter and his siblings support each other.

- Peter's decision to focus on football and his rapid rise in the sport.

- How Peter maintains his agility and speed despite his size.

- The recruitment journey and the decision to commit to UNC.

- UNC Family Culture: Why Peter chose UNC and his experience with Coach Mack Brown.

- Sibling Success: Peter's pride in his brother Joe's achievements and their shared dreams.

- The significance of Peter's NIL deal and what it means for his future.

- Rapid Fire Hot Seat: Fun and quick questions to get to know Peter better.

- Teammate's Testimony: Hear what Peter's teammate, Drew Woodaz, has to say about him.

Connect with Peter Pesansky:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peterpesansky/

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet:

- Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/

- Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/

What does it take to be a winner? Living and winning in a competitive environment is challenging, especially when you see many talented people around you. You also need to have some unique skills to get ahead of others.

But today's guest has a simple philosophy that makes him a true winner in life. Of course, he and his team are very good at what they do and never give up easily.

NC Shop Talk welcomes Tony Miller of Stitches Custom Auto Upholstery, who was chosen as the winner of this year's NC Interior of the Year Awards.

Discover what makes “Old Guy” Tony deserving of the accolade. He is a humble guy who does not brag about his skills or accomplishments, but he definitely has something valuable to share with everyone listening.

“If you want to win, keep trying until you win.” – Tony Miller

In This Episode:

- An exciting product launch for NC Carpet Binding & Equipment

- Here's a funny story about Mal's first encounter with Tony

- A brief background about Tony and how he got into the custom auto industry

- Why Tony joined the NC Auto Interior Contest again after failing to win the grand prize in 2021

- How did Tony know it was time to hire people?

- What is the biggest challenge with managing a team instead of doing things yourself?

- Mal puts Tony on the Rapid Fire Hot Seat

- What does Tony's team member, Erick, think about him?

And more!

Connect with Tony Miller:

- Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/stitchescustomautoupholstery/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tony_stitches/

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet:

- Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/

- Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/

- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/