Share
))
HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons hosts the most downloaded sports podcast of all time, with a rotating crew of celebrities, athletes, and media staples, as well as mainstays like Cousin Sal, Joe House, and a slew of other friends and family members who always happen to be suspiciously available.
…
continue reading
Manage episode 486458220 series 3390181
Content provided by Pete Shau. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Pete Shau or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://staging.podcastplayer.com/legal.
A glass artist's son from Uruguay transforms into a rent-to-own industry leader—Leonard Alonso's journey captures the essence of entrepreneurial spirit and American opportunity.
At just 13 years old, Leonard was crafting glass Disney characters on Main Street after Walt Disney himself discovered his father's artistry at the 1965 World's Fair. This early training in craftsmanship and customer service laid the foundation for an extraordinary career path that would take him from Disneyland to the highest levels of the rent-to-own industry.
When Leonard transitioned to Champion TV (later becoming a 100+ store powerhouse), he started in the warehouse refurbishing scratched console televisions. His breakthrough came during a closed-door sale when his product knowledge and natural sales ability caught management's attention. This moment launched his ascent through operations—from store manager to regional director overseeing 54 locations—his secret weapon being a meticulous approach to product handling that dramatically reduced costs.
After decades in operational leadership across Champion, Color Time, Aaron's and more, Leonard identified a critical gap in the rent-to-own supply chain. Drawing on this insight, he founded JLR America, creating a streamlined supply solution specifically tailored to what rent-to-own operators actually need. What sets JLR America apart? A leadership team with over 50 years of combined in-store experience, competitive pricing, lower shipping thresholds, and the agility to make decisions "within a minute"—now serving over 500 rent-to-own stores nationwide.
Leonard's advice for aspiring entrepreneurs reflects his own success formula: "Hone your skill and don't be afraid. Take the plunge." Want to learn more about transforming industry expertise into entrepreneurial success? Explore JLR America at jlramerica.com or call 727-395-9121 to discover how their rent-to-own knowledge can support your business needs.
www.TheRTOshowPodcast.com
Facebook - The RTO Show
Instagram - the_rto_show
Linkedin - The RTO Show
Youtube - The RTO Show Podcast
Chapters
1. Introduction to Leonard Alonso (00:00:00)
2. From Uruguay to Disney: Family Origins (00:03:40)
3. Early Career in Rent-to-Own (00:06:53)
4. Building Experience Across Companies (00:11:10)
5. Creating the JLR America Business (00:16:34)
6. Standing Out Against Competitors (00:22:01)
7. Forward Vision and Closing Thoughts (00:30:22)
8. Reaching JLR America (00:39:36)
93 episodes
