Inside Canada's Custom Car Scene: Building Better Hot Rods with Andrew Harsevoort | S3 E17

Powered by: ➡️ Red Line Synthetic Oil: https://www.redlineoil.com/ ➡️ AMD: https://www.autometaldirect.com/ What does it really take to build a custom car shop where craftsmanship comes before shortcuts? In this episode of Gearheads n’ Gasoline, Barry Alt and guest co-host Jesse Henke of JH Restorations sit down with Andrew Harsevoort, owner of Harse Autocraft in Ontario, Canada, to discuss the evolution of his business, the realities of high-end automotive restoration, and what it takes to build a reputation for exceptional quality. After spending more than a decade in the collision repair industry, Andrew opened his own shop in 2014 with a straightforward mission: bring craftsmanship back to the automotive trade. What began as a focus on quality bodywork and paint has grown into a custom automotive operation tackling complete builds, specialty fabrication, and carbon fiber Alfa Romeo projects. Andrew shares how his team approaches craftsmanship, why attitude matters more than experience when hiring, and how social media has helped attract both talented employees and new customers. The conversation also explores the challenges Canadian builders face when sourcing parts from the United States, the true cost of custom paint and restoration work, and why building relationships with other shops is essential to advancing the industry. From reimagining vintage Alfa Romeos to discussing the next generation of custom cars, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build great vehicles and a sustainable business around them. -- Subscribe for conversations with the best shop owners, builders, manufacturers, and aftermarket pros in the restoration, performance & racing industry. -- Key Takeaways: • Craftsmanship is more than a finished product. • The transition from collision repair to restoration requires a different mindset. • Hire for attitude, then develop the skills. • Canadian custom car builders face unique challenges. • Specialty projects can create unexpected business opportunities. • Social media is an investment in business growth. • Custom automotive work requires realistic budgets. • Technology should support creativity, not replace it. • Industry relationships help builders improve. • Building a successful shop takes time. Guest Bio: With a love for the trade and a passion for the craftsmanship part of it, the insurance led collision shops were no longer a good fit for me. With a supportive wife, I ventured out on my own in 2014 to redefine the industry by bringing the craft back, focusing on quality and details that last. To invest in clients who understand the value of craftsmanship and creativity. Harse Autocraft has since grown to a spot well beyond what I ever could have imagined, and I am loving the challenges that each new growth brings. We have been blessed with amazing clients who let us showcase our skills and creativity. Guest: Andrew Harsevoort, Owner, Harse Autocraft https://www.harseautocraft.com   / harse-autocraft-100060242573992     / harse_autocraft   Host: Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital maximizesales@motorheaddigital.com https://motorheaddigital.com/   / motorhead.digital     / motorhead.digital     / motorhead-digital   Co-Host: Jesse Henke, JH Restorations https://jhrestorations.ca   / jhrestorations     / jh_restorations      / @jhrestorationsltd   Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!   / gearheadsngasoline     / gearheadsngasoline     / gearheadsngasoline     / gngautopodcast   https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... https://open.spotify.com/show/5XkmXB0...   / gearheadsngas   #automotivemarketing #automotiverestoration #automotivecustomization #raceshops #automotivelife #entrepreneur #youthengagement