All posts by My RV Guy
Franchise Interview – Mr. Ron Ash, CEO and Founder, My RV Guy Franchise
How did you get into the RV Services industry?
My first experience in the RV industry began in 2014 while acting as the interim business manager for a Providence area dealership which sold and serviced automobiles, boats and RVs. Several years later, I took on a sales and business development role at a large dual location Massachusetts RV dealership. Immediately I put my decades of marketing experience together and created the My RV Guy brand as a way to increase leads, web traffic and foot traffic. Through social media video presentations, blog writings and email campaigns My RV Guy fostered trust and built solid relationships with our sales, parts and service customers. In 2021 a national chain purchased the dealership. I realized I’d no longer be able to offer my customers the service they were accustomed to, so I decided to part ways. I recognized a high demand for RV services and decided to fill that niche. The My RV Guy brand had a strong platform, so I recruited a few seasoned RV technicians who reflected my core values and could listen, evaluate needs and present what would work best for our clients.
What’s New in the My RV Guy Business or in the My RV Guy Franchise Model?
The My RV Guy brand has been able to incorporate the newest technologies, parts resources and support into an industry lacking in acceptable customer service practices. Our customer first approach has allowed us to win jobs and create lasting relationships. “Finally, a friendly voice on the line!” Answering calls, prioritizing customers needs combined with our unique offerings has catapulted My RV Guy forward in the RV services industry. Parts, Services, Solutions! Everything you need for your RV.
Where do you See Opportunities or Challenges for the Franchise/Business Moving Forward?
Finding seasoned RV technicians who reflect My RV Guy core values and can listen, evaluate needs and present what would work best for our clients can be challenging. Through franchising we hope to partner with franchisees that take pride in being able to provide My RV Guy customers with a high-quality, honest, and valuable service at competitive prices. Our ideal candidates will also be professional, outgoing, and mechanically inclined.
What is your Goal for the Business Moving Forward?
With a network of My RV Guy franchises nationwide, we will experience exponential growth via ever strengthening brand recognition, parts margins and evolving technologies. I’d like to interact with our franchisees on a regular basis, consider new ideas, and create an environment that make our franchisees excited to start their workday every day! In 1992 I began a chain of automotive accessories stores in Rhode Island. One of our largest suppliers offered impeccable customer service in every area of the company. I honestly felt like I wanted to sell more for them. This is the feeling I’d like to establish in My RV Guy franchisees.
Talk to us About Training and Support, How Do You Deliver?
With over three decades in the parts and services industry I have learned a lot, and I look forward to putting that knowledge to work for my franchisees. Through every experience good and bad lessons are learned that can either hold us back or move us forward in the direction of our dreams. This is how we add tools to our toolbox. Through My RV Guy Franchising LLC, I offer franchisees access to a vast array of business management and marketing tools that would otherwise take years to acquire.
Franchisee support embellishes upon typical customer support models to develop franchisee skills in customer service by empathizing with our clients’ feelings as well as their service needs. It’s easy to get caught up in the emotions of a less than perfect situation. The right response can make the difference between a profitable experience and a bad business review. My RV Guy will be available to help franchisees through these types of situations, turning a volatile situation into a valuable one.
Access to parts and supplies is critical in any parts and services business. Acquiring the right parts in perfect timing is critical to the success of the My RV Guy business model. In most cases, when it comes to ordering parts, we can only be as good as our suppliers. Thirty years of purchasing parts and accessories has developed best in the business access to the parts and supplies our customers need. My RV Guy also has the ability to use data to suggest the RV parts and supplies our technicians should have on hand. My RV Guy franchisees will be able to say, “We’ve got that!” as well as “We do that!”
Efficiency is key in every business. When we save time, we make more money. Through our CRM tools franchisees will enjoy the ability to track technicians and have them book more jobs on route. My RV Guy customers know what to expect and when to expect it. “My RV Guy is on the way!” A polished, evolving and profitable business model allows technicians to do more jobs in less time while making more money. Multiple “at your fingertips” payment platforms including integrated credit card and installment terms separate My RV Guy from typical independent cash only RV mobile repair businesses.
Ongoing education is always available via the My RV Guy skills center online, CRM support agents, outside RV training facilities and by RV manufacturers and suppliers. We encourage our franchisees to seek training in areas they may be lacking. The more we learn the more we earn!
Your most difficult moment at the Franchise Business?
My RV Guy is a highly expandable business model. There is the potential to add multiple trucks to the franchise to keep up with demand for services. Having the right trainee on deck to do this can be a challenge. When your franchise begins to schedule customers several weeks out, it’s time to hire a helper. Working daily with you will develop their core values while readying a qualified technician for your franchise.
Define your Franchise Model:
A. Training and Support Model?
Initial and ongoing training.
B. What is the Fee Structure?
8% royalty/ 6% local advertising
C. Territory Definition?
15-30 miles ideally, 40 miles plus allowed outside assigned My RV Guy territories, RV campground locations can determine territories and locations, travel time should generally not exceed a one-hour drive.
D. Day in the life of a Franchisee?
My RV Guys will turn on their smartphones, tablets or computers at the beginning of each business day, check messages, return calls and texts, and begin sending out estimates and scheduling jobs. They will check to verify they have the parts and supplies they need to complete their repairs for the day and be sure they have the parts necessary for every day. Technicians can clock in and drive to their first job after letting their customer know they are ‘on the way’ via our CRM. Upon arrival technicians will start the clock for that job and begin the diagnostic or repair. The CRM will bring the technicians from there to billing. Once the technician has received payment it is on to the next job. Offer payment options and schedule routine maintenance before you go. Remember, every visit is an opportunity to foster a lasting relationship with your My RV Guy client. Find common ground! All things being equal, customers will always do business with those they like.
What does Your Franchisee Do in the My RV Guy Business Every Day?
This will depend on the franchise model they choose. Typically, the owner operator will take care of the day-to-day operations of their business. They will be the business manager, service advisor, parts manager and RV technician. In the owner operated service advisor model, the franchisee will take requests and dispatch their service technicians to various jobs. Both roles will be responsible to guide the day-to-day operations of the business included but not limited to customer service, ordering parts, tracking returns and scheduling jobs.
Who is the Ideal Franchise Candidate?
Our ideal candidate will also be professional, outgoing, and mechanically inclined. Honestly though, we need people who are ready to work and bring intensity and passion to the business, we can teach them the rest!
What Goals Do You Have for the My RV Guy Franchise Model in the Future?
Regional to national expansion is my main goal. Keeping up with technology and maintaining My RV Guy core beliefs is key. Having everyone on the same page while being open to new ideas to bring My RV Guy forward, and considering all opportunities as they are presented will contribute greatly to our enduring brand.
The greatest journeys begin with a single step. Taking that step and understanding everything you need to achieve your goals will materialize in perfect timing is at the heart of every great entrepreneur. Asking yourself, “What can I do today with what I have right now?” is the best way to ensure an expansive future.
For more information on the My RV Guy Service Model, Brand and Franchise System, visit the corporate site: www.myrvguyfranchise.com
Off Season On The Pond
Hello Campers,
Fall weekends on the pond came to mind this morning. As children we stayed outside most of the day. The temperature dropping a few degrees didn’t change that. We’d throw on progressively heavier clothing and enjoy the subtle changes of the off season on Johnson’s Pond.
Most packed up and headed back to the city before this magical time of year began and wouldn’t return until Memorial Day weekend. We were lucky to have our primary residence less than an hour away, so for us that was not the case. Our Camp Ash didn’t suffer from a lack of use.
The air was cool and fresh, and there was a quiet that didn’t exist on a hot summer’s weekend by the water. This was the perfect recipe for expanding a child’s imagination. In those early years I’d build entire ranches with twigs and pine needles. I’d break up tiny branches, stick the twigs in the ground and create corral fences, barns and log cabins. Nature’s toys!
Eventually we’d take in our floating docks by laying them on rollers. That’s about the time I learned about leverage. The boats would get winterized, but we’d still take out the canoe or jon boat until the pond froze over. Once that happened it would be time to skate the pond. That experience went beyond peaceful. When the ice was safe enough, we’d skate the entire cove. I still have vivid memories of my neighbor Vinny losing himself in the present as he made the most of the experience.
Although the days ended sooner and cooler, a roaring fire accompanied by an old song or scary story, and our combined laughter made every hour a bit more valuable. The stars above seemed a lot more abundant too. Maybe it was because our senses became more aware as we were absent of distractions. Whatever the case, I’ll always cherish those special moments together off season on the pond.
Happy camping!
Ron Ash aka My RV Guy
IT’S TIME TO SCHEDULE YOUR RV WINTERIZATION
My RV Guy offers an RV winterization service to protect your RV from cold weather damage by draining the water system, blowing out lines, adding RV antifreeze, and preparing vulnerable components for storage. This process prevents pipes from freezing and cracking, ensuring your RV is ready for use in the spring. You can schedule this service through My RV Guy to have their technicians prepare your vehicle for the winter.
How My RV Guy’s Winterization Service Works
- Draining the water system:Water is removed from the fresh water tank and hot water heater.
- Bypassing the water heater:The water heater is bypassed to prevent antifreeze from filling it, which saves antifreeze and makes the process more effective for the plumbing.
- Blowing out lines:Compressed air is used to remove any remaining water from the water lines and pipes.
- Adding RV antifreeze:Non-toxic RV antifreeze is pumped through the plumbing system to protect it from freezing.
- Protecting vulnerable components:This step helps protect components from the elements, though the exact details can vary by RV and service level.
Why Winterize Your RV?
- Prevent freezing damage:The primary goal is to prevent water from freezing in your RV’s plumbing, which can cause pipes, tanks, and other components to crack and burst.
- Ensure readiness for spring:A properly winterized RV will be ready to use when warmer weather returns without needing extensive repairs.
How to Schedule Service
You can schedule your RV winterization service directly through My RV Guy. Their website myrvguy.shop provides information on services and how to contact them.
Where The Magic Happens
Hello Campers,
I’m a bit of a workaholic, especially when I’m doing what I love. It isn’t always easy for me to put work aside and dedicate myself to vacationing. Today’s electronics combined with the internet make staying off the grid challenging. However, this year during my annual “Ash Family Vacation” alongside Narragansett Bay I realized doing anything that required an internet connection would be futile. I quickly decided to put my laptop away and concentrated on a fantastic week with family, friends and some of the most beautiful scenery Aquidneck Island had to offer. Whether I was relaxing at the beach, exploring the coast or enjoying what I affectionately refer to as the “poor man’s surf and turf” (lobster & burgers) at the family reunion cookout, I continually remained present. It was wonderful! Lesson learned. The past is gone and the future isn’t here yet. All we really have is right now. That’s where the magic happens.
Remember, time is our most precious commodity. Spend it wisely.
Happy camping!
Ron Ash aka My RV Guy
The Purple Cat
by Ron Ash
Some say we are all interconnected and what happens to one can touch everyone. I learned early on that this happens in our local business environment as well. The Rhode Island racetrack first opened in 1941 as a result of a Buick salesman known as Lucky. B A Dario had a passion for breeding thoroughbred horses so he decided to buy a small racetrack in town. This would eventually give birth to what is now Twin River Casino which was formerly “Lucky’s” Lincoln Downs.
Just over a decade earlier the Lavoie family of Glocester began making plans for a restaurant in Chepachet. They would use retired trolley cars from what was the Woonsocket Fairmont Line to create the diner. When the Pascoag Race Track officially opened The Purple Cat Diner expanded and flourished serving horse owners, jockeys and trainers. Until recently the shabby remains of the restaurant’s former glory still stood over our beloved village. Today an old family friend (Al Constantino) and his partner are recreating the property from scratch. Another idea in its infancy which will maintain Chepachet’s unique flavor while building fantastic memories for all. Hopefully they will be able to reintroduce the trolley cars in some way.
Feel free to share your memories related to this story. I’d love to hear from you. (photos by Frank Foster)
Happy camping.
Extended Season Camping
Hello Campers,
Fall and Winter camping isn’t for everyone, but if you’re a camping enthusiast with the proper equipment you may want to give it a try. My first winter camping experience was just over thirty years ago. The ground was hard, and the trails were icy, but my friends and I still managed to have an amazing time. We didn’t have access to the state-of-the-art equipment available today. In fact, we camped in tents without floors and our beds consisted of fallen leaves and a heavy tarp for ground cover. A good sleeping bag, wool socks and layers of insulated clothing were necessities of survival. Most importantly, we all made sure we kept the campfire burning.
I still have vivid memories of one of the new guys as he carried two cast iron Dutch ovens up the icy trails behind us. The occasional bang and rolling clatter were enough to assure us he was still there. Our backpacks were filled with all we would need to enjoy a cold winter weekend away with friends. We’d clear our site, set the tents and hunker down for the weekend to enjoy the peacefulness of nature and the comradery of our camping family of friends.
Today modern recreational vehicles have expanded our camping seasons and allowed for a comfortable retreat from cold winter winds. Polar packages with ducted heated underbellies, heavy insulation and even fireplaces have become common place. If you love camping and have the equipment it’s time to find a few year-round campgrounds to enjoy. Some members of my Camp New England Facebook group have recommended Aces High RV Park (CT), Peppermint Park Camping Resort (MA), Green Mountain Family Campground (VT) and Ammonoosuc Campground (NH). Let me know about your favorite year-round spots as well as your own camping experiences. I’d love to hear from you.
Remember, we are only limited by what we think is impossible.
Happy Camping!
Ron Ash aka MY RV GUY
What The Bleep Is Dealer RV Prep?
Hello Campers!
Years ago a friend told me a story about their family tradition of cutting off the corner of their holiday ham. This tradition spanned generations. One day a child asked, “Why do we always cut the corner off the ham before we put it in the oven?” Grandpa had no answer, so they decided to ask Grandma. She sat the child down by her side and said, “You see, when I was little my mom cut the corner off the ham because our oven was too small.” Imagine, for decades they followed tradition without knowing why.
I’ve spoken with hundreds of RV shoppers during my time at Flagg RV. With every visit I told my customers Flagg RV has no hidden charges and I rattle off what our already low price includes, but I never thought to explain what dealer RV prep is. It just became tradition. That was until a customer explained how the underbelly of their trailer was flooded on their first adventure because of a leak in their plumbing. For some reason their RV prep and cleaning wasn’t completed and their RV was ruined. That’s when I realized the reason behind our tradition.
Dealer RV Prep is probably the most important service a dealership completes on a customer’s RV. You see, when an RV leaves the factory it is hitched up to a truck and driven to the dealer hundreds of miles away. The factory counts on the dealer to do a thorough systems check to make sure every customer takes delivery of a safe and reliable RV. Gas lines and plumbing are checked for leaks, appliances are tested and electrical systems are inspected. Proper dealer RV prep can take many hours if no problem exists, but if there is an issue with any major component it could take weeks. The RV factories and RV wholesalers are not responsible to conduct these types of systems tests. It’s up to the buyer to do so at their own expense. This often amounts to thousands of dollars above the cost of the RV if they didn’t purchase from a reputable local dealership. So, if you decide to purchase from a wholesaler or private party, make sure you schedule a pre purchase inspection. The health of your family and your RV will depend on it.
Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Happy camping!
RV Maintenance
Hello Campers,
Like anything else RVs require regular maintenance. Did you know manufacturers recommend inspecting seals every ninety days? HVAC, plumbing and other systems require seasonal maintenance as well. Get ahead of potential issues by scheduling regular inspections and maintenance with a reputable RV technician to make sure you’re always ready to go RVing.
Happy camping,!
Summertime Halftime
Hello Campers,
Summer is far from over. Don’t let all the back to school advertisements put a damper on summertime RV living. We’re only halfway through, so let’s remain present and relish in every experience the season has to offer.
Recently I was reminded of just how great that can be. I’m a bit of a workaholic, especially when I’m doing what I love. It isn’t always easy for me to put work aside and dedicate myself to vacationing. Today’s electronics combined with the internet make staying off the grid challenging. However, this year during my annual “Ash Family Vacation” alongside Narragansett Bay I realized doing anything that required an internet connection would be futile. I quickly decided to put my laptop away and concentrated on a fantastic week with family, friends and some of the most beautiful scenery Aquidneck Island had to offer. Whether I was relaxing at the beach, exploring the coast or enjoying what I affectionately refer to as the “poor man’s surf and turf” (lobster & burgers) at the family reunion cookout, I continually remained present. It was wonderful!
Lesson learned. The past is gone and the future isn’t here yet. All we really have is right now. That’s where the magic happens.
Remember, time is our most precious commodity. Spend it wisely.
Happy camping!
How Goes The Revolution
Hello Campers,
How goes the revolution? In a previous blog More Memorable Memories I mentioned how gathering together with family and friends fosters memories that keep. I suggested a “New Year’s Revolution” instead of the traditional resolution. It looks like many are already onboard. With every generation, Americans are moving away from spending on possessions in favor of life experiences. I’d like to think it was something I said. Imagine, 8 in 10 Millennials crave more real world experiences and are putting their money into satisfying their experimental appetite. My “Gen X” group isn’t far behind. Many are selling their homes in favor of simplified lifestyles and expanding experiences via the RV lifestyle. Freedom, excitement, interaction and growth are the driving forces behind this massive shift in the American dream. They’re seeing the sights and enjoying campgrounds with a plethora of events and activities for every palate. So, if you’re sitting around the house having checked your explorer’s spirit at the door, it may be time to start living intentionally. Your next greatest experience may only be a few miles away.
Remember, the things we experience today contribute to how we’ll see ourselves tomorrow.
Happy camping,
Ron Ash aka My RV Guy
My RV Guy 