Franchisee Spotlight: Tracy and Kristin Steward

Originally from Arkansas, Tracy graduated from Hendrix College with a degree in Business and Economics followed by attending the University of Central Arkansas where he graduated with an MBA. After graduating, he moved to Phoenix in 1993 to take a job with FHP Healthcare, later purchased by PacifiCare Health Systems and finally by United Healthcare. He stayed there for 17 years, eventually becoming the director of the provider contract loading department managing 150-plus employees.  His wife, Kristin, originally from Pennsylvania, graduated with a degree in psychology from Hendrix College in Arkansas and later went on to get her Elementary Education Teacher Certificate and Masters in Education. She currently runs an in-home pre-school. 

How did you learn about the brand?

After working for United Healthcare I was looking for new opportunities and I met with a franchise consultant. I looked at a number of different concepts ranging from temporary agencies  to senior care but working in the auto industry really fascinated me.

Why did you choose an opportunity with Honest-1?

We ended up choosing Honest-1 for a number of reasons. Coming from the healthcare industry I had a deep root in service and helping people; Honest-1’s system and their eco-friendly approach to the industry was very intriguing. The most important thing we liked about this model is the relationship building and the fact that we have a physical location so we can be a focal point in the community.

What makes your business unique in the community?

The reality is that we stick to our morals and we’re always honest whether the situation is good or bad.  We strive to be open and honest with our customers so they are never surprised. We help our customers make a plan so they are prepared for any issues with their vehicles.  Respect in this industry for the customer and their car is important to us. In order to build long standing relationships with our customers we seek to earn that respect through everything we do. 

Are you involved with any charities or do any community outreach with your business?

We feel very strongly that giving back to our community is not an option but a responsibility. Personally, I enjoy being a part of Cub Scouts with my boys. I am the treasurer of our local Cub Scout pack and Pinewood Derby Committee Leader. Unofficially, we’ve partnered with several community organizations with several donation drives including Arizona Helping Hands, Packages From Home and the Susan G. Komen Foundation and like being active with them.  We also do a pretty prominent pajama and children’s book drive through the Pajama Program and have given away discounts to veterans for Memorial Day in the past.

What challenges have you overcome to get where you are now?

One of the greatest advantages of purchasing the shop was that I came in with some really great employees and recently have had added to that; to us the most important thing is having the right people doing the right things so that we can continue to build relationships with our customers.

What are your expansion or development plans? What is your end goal with Honest1?

I have plans to open another shop by 2014 and our end goal is to be the go-to auto care solution in the community.

Do you have any other interesting hobbies or passions?

My wife, Kristin, and I have four children and our family is our true passion.