Matt Jensen grew up in the industry under the tutelage of his father, W.R., who founded Jensen Tire & Auto in 1973 with his wife. In the mid-90s, Matt bought out his father’s share of the business and focused on its growth in Omaha, Fremont and Lincoln, Nebraska. In 10 years’ time, he took Jensen Tire from 10 locations to 21.

Throughout the years, Jensen Tire has stayed true to its mission of maintaining long-lasting relationships with friends and neighbors who seek out their products and services. Today, Matt’s sons, Mike and Nick, have joined the business in leadership roles. Mike serves as vice president of operations, and Nick is vice president of retail operations. As Matt transitions more duties to his sons, he’s looking to grow Jensen Tire’s footprint and reach the next level.

EPISODE OVERVIEW
- Matt describes how his parents founded Jensen Tire & Auto and how he worked his way up in the business (1:51)
- The trait Matt learned from his father that helped him grow the business to 21 locations (5:09)
- How Matt and his wife, Diane, grew the business together from 10 to 21 locations (6:34)
- Mike details how he worked his way up in the business, "earned his stripes" and became vice president of operations (10:20)
- Mike explains why Jensen Tire is investing in mobile tire service and what the benefits have been for the business (12:24)
- Why Mike lives by the motto of "staying ahead of the game" (15:01)
- Nick takes Johnny g through his start in the tire business and his role as president of retail operations, managing 220 employees (16:22)
- Nick describes how he's working to grow a workforce for Jensen Tire (19:02)
- The most important lesson Nick has learned from his dad (23:32)
- Matt describes his role as president and CEO today compared to 10 years ago and the challenges he and other dealers face when looking to open new locations (24:51)
- What Jensen Tire's 50th anniversary means to Matt (27:52)

Check out more episodes of Johnny g & Friends: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVkqUUE022sfk413J6lVAaPFH4Wc2ORLy

More from Firestone Tires: https://www.firestonetire.com