The RTO Show "Let's talk Rent to Own"

Pete Shau

The RTO Show is designed to give everyone a laid back view into the Rent to Own industry with great interviews and compelling discussion topics on new and changing ideas. All seen through the eyes of a host that has almost 2 decades of experience in the ever changing and growing landscape of Rent to Own. Host Pete Shau talks about RTO topics with a bit of laughter and a hint of sarcasm.

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Episodes

Where is Wondersign? The real story w/ Kaspar Fopp CEO
Oct 18 2024
Where is Wondersign? The real story w/ Kaspar Fopp CEO
Send us a text     Join me as I sit down with Kaspar Fopp to uncover the inspiring comeback story of Wondersign. Discover how this innovative company, once celebrated as "the iPhone of digital signage" in Switzerland, faced daunting challenges when it expanded to the U.S. market. Kaspar takes us through the twists and turns of reviving a tech company on the brink of closure, highlighting pivotal moments that spurred Wondersign's resurgence in the rent-to-own industry. From unexpected encounters to strategic collaborations, Kaspar shares insights on the importance of adaptability and innovation in overcoming setbacks.     We also explore the integral role of relationships in boosting business success. Learn how a serendipitous meeting with Ashley Furniture's marketing VP turned the tide for Wondersign, paving the way for transformative technological advancements. Hear about the journey of digitizing Ashley's extensive product catalog, the complexities of kiosk branding, and the challenges of adapting European success to the U.S. market. Kaspar shares personal anecdotes of navigating visa processes and the demanding responsibilities that come with being an American citizen, offering a glimpse into the personal side of building a cross-continental enterprise.     As we look ahead, dive into the launch of Wondersign 2.0 and its potential to revolutionize inventory decisions in the rent-to-own sector. Uncover how embracing technology like 3D and AR features can enhance customer experiences and drive business growth. Listen in as Kaspar and I discuss the evolution of Wondersign's brand, the necessity of diversification, and the exciting future of the RTO industry. Don't miss this captivating episode, packed with knowledge and inspiration for anyone eager to understand the resilience needed to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape. Support the show
Maximizing Digital Advertising Success in the RTO Industry w/ Ryan Krass of Wowbrands
Sep 30 2024
Maximizing Digital Advertising Success in the RTO Industry w/ Ryan Krass of Wowbrands
Send us a textAre you ready to transform your marketing strategy and dominate the rent-to-own market? Join us for a deep dive into the innovative world of Wowbrands with CEO and CTO, Ryan Krass. From pioneering mobile websites to developing state-of-the-art CRM software, Ryan offers an inside look at how his team is reshaping lead generation, mobile compatibility, and customer communication to capture the attention of younger consumers. Learn how seamless integration with existing RTO systems like Versirent and High Touch ensures a user-friendly and effective experience for clients.Discover the seismic shifts in consumer behavior brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and what it means for your RTO business. We'll discuss the newfound importance of rapid response times to online inquiries and how younger generations are now purchasing big-ticket items online. Retraining salesforces and integrating technologies like VoIP systems can streamline customer engagement and boost efficiency. Ryan shares real-world examples and data that underscore the need to adapt quickly to these evolving trends in order to stay competitive.Finally, get the inside scoop on how to make your digital advertising dollars work harder for you. Ryan discusses the critical role of mastering paid ads on Google, as the platform's ad space continues to expand. Learn about the varying effectiveness of different marketing channels, such as TV, radio, and social media, and why being present where consumers are most active is crucial. We'll wrap up the episode with actionable strategies for managing leads through advanced CRM systems, ensuring no opportunity slips through the cracks. This episode is packed with invaluable insights to help you stay ahead in the ever-changing RTO market.Sponsored by APRO, Vox-pop-uli, and Jeraud Norman Marketing Support the show
Behind the Scenes of RTO World w/ Charles Smitherman, CEO of APRO
Sep 16 2024
Behind the Scenes of RTO World w/ Charles Smitherman, CEO of APRO
Send us a textWhat makes an event truly unforgettable, even in the face of unexpected challenges like inclement weather? Join us for an in-depth chat with Charles Smitherman, CEO of APRO, as he pulls back the curtain on the immense planning and collaboration that made the recent RTO World in Orlando a grand success. Charles provides valuable insights into the intricate partnership between APRO and TRIB Group and the significance of pre-event activities like the legal summit and women's forum. These forums not only set the stage for the main event but also offer essential opportunities for industry engagement and learning.What unique platform combines networking with meaningful discussions on industry challenges, particularly those faced by women? Discover the innovative "world cafe" concept and celebrate the growing representation of women in the rent-to-own industry, as highlighted by their dominance in the million-dollar store awards. We also explore the vibrant diversity brought by new vendors at the APRO show, offering a myriad of services and products ranging from furniture to credit card processing. The Women's Forum is spotlighted for fostering a supportive community among industry leaders, proving to be an invaluable part of the event.Looking ahead, what makes Omaha, Nebraska, the perfect location for RTO World 2025? Unpack our conversation around the strategic choice of Omaha, benefiting from its central location and excellent convention facilities. We delve into the anticipated discussions on generational and legal issues within the RTO sector, featuring insights from Edwin, the "godfather of RTO," and Michael Helton of R,G, and Co. The episode also revisits the magical fundraising night at RTO World, where the community's enthusiasm helped raise $28,000 for the APRO Charitable Foundation. As we prepare for future events, the importance of camaraderie, feedback, and continuous improvement is underscored, ensuring that each RTO World surpasses the last. Support the show
Adapting to Retail Challenges w/ Jennifer Harrod at RTO World 2024
Aug 27 2024
Adapting to Retail Challenges w/ Jennifer Harrod at RTO World 2024
Send us a textEver wondered how rising costs are shaping consumer behavior in the retail world? In our latest episode, we sit down with Jennifer Harrod, owner of Jameson's Sales and Rentals, right from the heart of APRO's RTO World 2024 convention in Orlando, Florida. Jennifer shares her story of a grueling 16-hour drive to the event through heavy rain and offers a candid look at her business's summer performance. She highlights how a robust June gave her the momentum needed for the third quarter and introduces us to her new full-time Penske truck rental service, despite a dip in Penske's peak season performance this year.Discover the secrets behind evolving sales strategies in the challenging economic landscape as Jennifer discusses her innovative approach to selling appliances and furniture. With customers now prioritizing essential items like appliances over luxury furniture, Jennifer reveals how immediate weekly discounts can provide the instant gratification that drives sales. She also shares the importance of maintaining a good inventory, the benefits of reliable vendors like American Wholesale Furniture and Nationwide Furniture Distributors, and why keeping high standards for product quality and repair capabilities is crucial for customer satisfaction and efficient store operations.Get inspired by the innovative retail trends that could revolutionize your business! From Capital Concierges' groundbreaking large cash register-like machines to the growing necessity of a robust online presence on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, Jennifer provides insights into attracting more foot traffic and adapting to market trends. Plus, we touch on the invaluable benefits of networking at industry shows, the unique offerings of our rental home company, and the excitement of future collaborations. Don't miss out on the valuable lessons and personal stories that make this episode a must-listen!Support the show
Mastering Social Media Marketing w/ Chad Fosdick & Jerard Norman at RTO World 2024
Aug 26 2024
Mastering Social Media Marketing w/ Chad Fosdick & Jerard Norman at RTO World 2024
Send us a textEver wondered how to achieve consistency and engagement in your social media marketing? Join me, Pete Shau, as I dig into this topic with industry experts Chad Fosdick and Jerard Norman at APRO's RTO World 2024 convention in Orlando, Florida. We uncover the powerful blend of organic content and strategic ad placements. Chad shares his secrets on making community-focused posts that truly resonate, while Jerard dives into the nuances of paid ads to keep your business top of mind. If you're seeking actionable advice to enhance your social media presence, this conversation is a must-listen.Is radio still the king of credibility, or has social media taken the throne? In our exploration, we debate the trustworthiness of traditional media versus the deep engagement potential of social media. I make a case for social media's ability to forge strong connections with your audience through longer-form content. With younger generations increasingly opting out of traditional ads, we discuss why mastering social media is crucial for staying relevant and building brand loyalty.How can you adapt your business strategies for growth without losing sight of your core values? Through real-world examples from Chad's businesses, we discuss personalized social media engagement and the benefits of cross-platform campaigns. Discover why being active and approachable on social media can significantly impact your conversion rates. Lastly, we share insights on Premier's evolution in response to market demands and offer a sneak peek into next year's RTO World 25 event in Omaha, Nebraska.  Support the show
Navigating Economic Turmoil in RTO w/ Jason Winters
Aug 12 2024
Navigating Economic Turmoil in RTO w/ Jason Winters
Send us a textWhat if you could navigate economic turmoil without sacrificing essential services? Join us on this episode of The RTO Show, where Jason Winters from Impact Holdings unpacks the effects of today's economic climate on the rent-to-own (RTO) industry. We break down the rising costs of living and how RTO offers a lifeline for those in financial straits. Jason reveals the hidden operational costs that go into maintaining these critical services—think free deliveries, no-credit-check payment plans, and more—debunking the myth that RTO is overpriced.Ever wonder about the real cost of long-term financial commitments? We dissect the often overlooked interest rates on mortgages and car payments and draw compelling comparisons to the transparency and flexibility of RTO options. Providing unique insights into customer service, we discuss the significance of personalized interactions in smaller businesses versus the impersonal nature of big-box retailers. Our conversation sheds light on the stigma around using RTO services and stresses their vital role for individuals facing financial hardship, ensuring they can still access essential household items.Hiring and retaining quality employees in the RTO sector is no walk in the park, especially in today's tough economic environment. We discuss the high turnover rates, the importance of effective collections, and the need for a more rigorous hiring process. Learn about the importance of maintaining strong relationships with both employees and customers to ensure long-term success. Whether you're an industry insider or just curious about how RTO can be a lifeline during these challenging times, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for navigating the complexities of the current economy. Support the show