Jeremy Newman owns and operates an insurance restoration company, Crown Restoration. The company performs water and fire damage remediation, general construction and dabbles in carpet/tile cleaning. They entered their eighth year of operation in February of 2013.
Tell me a little about yourself.
My name is Jeremy Newman. I live in New Braunfels, TX with my 5 kids and wife of 17 years. After many years of bouncing around academically, I finished my BSBA at California Coast University in 2008. Education has been a hobby of mine of sorts for many years. I have many credits that I have stockpiled over the years from different institutions. I also hold certificates in various fields; one of them includes theology. Learning has been a lifelong pursuit and passion of mine.
Why did you enroll in the Master of Entrepreneurship program at Western Carolina University?
I initially had interest in the program about four years ago. The Drs. Carland (husband and wife team) talked with me at length about the program. They really seemed to understand the dream that resides within each entrepreneur. They communicated in a way that made me feel comfortable with the idea that entrepreneurs often march to a different beat than others. I would say that their influence greatly impacted my decision. I have aspirations to teach others how to realize their dreams. That may never come in the form of classroom teaching though. I’d like to pursue other avenues – possibly consulting or other training. Generally speaking, I would like to strengthen my weaknesses and share this experience with other entrepreneurs.
What do you plan to get out of the courses?
I hope to bring all of my practical, real world experience together with professional instruction from WCU. My desire is that it will expand my vision for the future. Plus, who wouldn’t want to share your vision with other like-minded people?
Have you considered transferring your credits to get more degrees or a PhD?
I am a few credits away from being able to complete a second bachelor’s degree. Right now, I am not sure if the ROI is right to go for it. I wouldn’t rule it out though.
As far as going for the PhD, I am not sure. Honestly, I have done some research on doctoral programs. Those who have mentored me tell me that my heart needs to be all the way in it. I don’t know if I can muster up the attention span for it.
Since you already own what seems like a successful career, why enter into a Master’s program, especially after 8 years of operation? I ask because I think you could consult and help others without the help of the program.
Education can’t hurt, right? The program has intrigued me for several years. I plan to have more ventures in the future, so I’d love to expand my skills.
What made this semester the right semester to enroll?
My wife was fully behind me on this one. I am very crafty at convincing my wife and others to agree to things. Over time I have learned that I shouldn’t use my sales skills on my wife. Having buy-in is much more important than going off half-cocked. So, I waited until I had peace about it in all areas of my life. I guess I am getting more patient with time.
How did you get into the insurance restoration industry?
It was a combination I things. Early in, I owned a machine shop. My business had very slim profit margins. Through that eventual failure I learned some things that were very valuable.
Later I was involved in a medical device start-up while I lived in Tampa FL. Profit margins became a big topic of discussion there. The lessons again were huge.
When I decided to move back to Texas I was focused on a lean, mean profit machine. Margins were my main focus. This led me to the restoration field. I had dabbled in real estate and construction before, so remediation made sense. It took me a few years of education and stock piling used equipment before I really launched the business. It would say that it has been a positive experience so far but it could be so much better.
Do you plan on opening more businesses in the future?
Yes I do. I always have at least several ideas rolling around my head.
Did you always pursue being an entrepreneur?
I have always been bent that way. From a very young age I was making deals and coming up with different schemes. I have certainly taken my links along the way. I have also seen some success. It has always been exciting for me.
