The teenage years can be turbulent, a time when the search for identity and purpose often leads to crossroads. For many, finding a passion can be the lifeline that keeps them on track. For Rich McClellan, founder of Elite Customs in Franklin, Tennessee, that lifeline was cars. Through hard work, creativity, and determination, Rich turned his interest in cars into a career, a purpose, and a way of giving back to his community. His story is a testament to the importance of discovering a sense of purpose as a teenager and how that can shape a young person’s life and help them fulfill their potential.
The Power of Purpose: Cars and Other Passions
Rich’s journey into the automotive world began at 14 when he started working with car electronics. “I started replacing car stereos and beefing them up for friends and family members,” he recalls.
When he got his first car, a wrecked hand-me-down from his mom, he took it as an opportunity to learn. Through trial and error, Rich taught himself to repair and upgrade the vehicle. What started as a necessity quickly evolved into a passion.
“Idol hands are the devil’s playground,” Rich says. “Focus, creativity, innovation and skill will take you anywhere in life.” This philosophy helped him stay out of trouble as a teenager and develop the skills that eventually launched his career.
The Role of Purpose in Making Better Choices
Rich grew up in San Bernardino, California, and later moved to Las Vegas, raised by a hardworking single mother. The culture shock of relocating to Nashville as a teenager was challenging but also a turning point. “When you’re a teenager, it’s easy to get caught up in the wrong crowd or make bad decisions,” Rich explains. “Finding something you’re passionate about gives you a reason to stay focused.”
Rich’s passion for cars kept him grounded and gave him a sense of accomplishment. As he improved his skills, he began seeing how to turn his passion into a career. “The more I learned, the more I realized how much room there was for expertise, professionalism and transparency in the auto industry.”
Advice for Teens: Finding and Cultivating Purpose
Rich encourages teenagers to explore their interests and never stop learning. “Learn everything you can! Never stop being a student. The auto industry moves at lightning speed, so you always have to keep up and stay ahead of the trends,” he says. He also emphasizes the importance of looking for inspiration in unexpected places. “Look to the fashion and décor industries for inspiration. That’s something my wife taught me. You’ll begin to identify trends before they happen.”
For teens who may not yet know their passion, Rich suggests starting with hobbies or activities that spark curiosity. Whether it’s sports, music, or working on cars, dedicating time and effort to an interest can provide focus and direction.
Elite Customs: A Testament to Passion and Hard Work
Founded in 2015, Elite Customs manifests Rich’s lifelong dedication to cars. The shop specializes in body modifications, performance upgrades, lighting, and sound customizations. It is known for its meticulous attention to detail and creative vision. Each vehicle that leaves the shop reflects its owner’s unique style and personality, a testament to Rich’s ability to turn passion into artistry.
But Elite Customs is more than just a business, it’s a platform for mentorship. Rich often shares his story with young people, showing them that hard work and dedication can lead to success. “If somebody tells me an enhancement can’t be done, I take it as a personal challenge,” he says, a mindset that inspires those around him.
