Episode 3: Joey Johnston’s Interview
- 00:54 Introduction & Background
- 17:35 Challenges & Triumphs
- 32:03 Evolution & Trends
- 40:56 Unique Selling Proposition
Welcome back to another highlight from the Ride-in-Style Podcast! In this episode, hosts Jesse Stoddard and Josh Poulson sit down with Joey Johnston, owner of Tops and Trends, to dive deep into his journey through the auto restyling world. From humble beginnings to leading a multi-location powerhouse, Joey shares valuable lessons, industry insights, and the heart behind his family business.
A Legacy Built on Passion and Perseverance
Joey Johnston grew up in the world of cars, watching his father, a mechanical engineer, transform vehicles long before it was trendy. Although Joey initially pursued a career in finance, it didn’t take long for him to return to his roots and officially join the family business in the mid-90s.
Founded in 1977 by Joey’s father, Tops and Trends began with a simple dream—and a lot of hard work. Inspired by the trends he saw on the West Coast, Joe Johnston Sr. introduced the sunroof craze to the East Coast, even going as far as stacking twelve sunroofs into a tiny Honda Civic to kickstart the business!
Their journey led to incredible accolades, including winning a spot in the Inc. 500 list as the 407th fastest-growing company in the country back in 1988—a monumental achievement that still resonates today.
The Challenges of Growing a Family Business
Family businesses often come with high expectations and tough lessons. Joey candidly shares the reality of working under his father’s demanding yet deeply influential leadership. From being fired three times in one summer to eventually leading a multi-location company, Joey’s path was anything but easy.
One of the major hurdles Tops and Trends faced was expanding from one location to multiple stores. Joey emphasized that moving from one to two stores was one of the toughest transitions—requiring not only technical expertise but the right team and leadership skills to manage growth without sacrificing quality.
Staying True to Quality in a Changing Market
Throughout the conversation, Joey stressed one key value: quality over shortcuts. Whether installing pop-up sunroofs in the 80s or adapting to today’s market demands, Tops and Trends has always prioritized the long-term safety and satisfaction of their customers.
Unlike many in the industry who were quick to adopt subpar aftermarket solutions, Joey’s team took a cautious, methodical approach. They waited until products were properly tested, ensuring that everything they offered could meet the highest standards of safety and performance.
This commitment to excellence set Tops and Trends apart, establishing them as a trusted name in North Carolina—and beyond
Adapting to the Future of Auto Restyling
The automotive restyling industry has evolved dramatically. Joey notes that while trends like leather interiors, ground effects, and pop-up sunroofs once dominated, today’s landscape is more complex. With vehicles coming equipped with more factory-installed features and the rapid shift to electric vehicles and ADAS systems, aftermarket opportunities have shifted.
Still, Joey remains optimistic. He believes that those willing to adapt, innovate, and truly listen to the needs of the market will continue to thrive.
He encourages restylers to move beyond dependency on dealerships by connecting directly with customers—a strategy that improves satisfaction, builds loyalty, and protects businesses from dealership-driven compromises.
Lessons Learned from a Lifetime in the Business
Joey leaves listeners with key pieces of advice:
Always be proactive, not reactive—especially with supply chain challenges.
Invest in people wisely, knowing that hiring decisions can make or break your business.
Adapt to change without clinging to outdated models or waiting for perfect conditions.
Listen more than you talk, and learn to find opportunities where others see obstacles.
It’s clear that the success of Tops and Trends wasn’t just about mechanical skill or sales prowess—it’s about vision, leadership, and relentless commitment to excellence.
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
Tops and Trends isn’t just another restyling shop; it’s a shining example of how dedication, smart decision-making, and a family-driven work ethic can create lasting success. From the early days of installing sunroofs to winning national awards and becoming an industry mentor, Joey Johnston’s story is truly inspiring.
And yes—he’ll definitely be invited back for Part Two!
