We're happy to present you with the seventh installment in our Next Level Leadership Series, where we speak with TAB members about the challenges small business owners face in today's world. Through this series of interviews, we discover how various small business owners have risen above and beyond to become our Next Level Leaders.

This week we present Rich Rossiello Sr., founder and owner of The Perfect Shift in Henryville, PA. For the Rossiellos, home is truly where the heart (of the business) is: the business began in the family's garage back in 1990, before growing to a separate shop that sells transmission parts, torque converters, overhaul kits and much more, both storefront and online. Rich Jr. would come home and help out at the shop after school, and more than 20 years later, continues his passion for the family business, working side by side with his father at The Perfect Shift.

When was The Perfect Shift founded? Did you start the business, or was it someone in your family?

1990. It was me that started it. I actually started it out of my garage, started buying torque converters from other manufacturers, and eventually we bought the equipment and started manufacturing our own.

Who in your family is involved at the shop? How long have they been part of your work team?

We’re a family business. My son works here, [laughs] since about 1990 also. He would work after school. He’s been with me the whole time.

What roles does he play?

My son [Rich Jr.] answers the telephones. People get us confused [on the phone]; they say we sound alike. We basically do everything. He works in the back with the guys, welds, and works in the rebuilding process. He’s hands-on with most of the things in the back.

What is one of the biggest challenges that you face when your family is working with you in your business?

Because you’re with each other all day, you tend to have less time together for family functions.

And he’s a good kid. If I need work done around the house, he’ll always help.

What are some of [is one] of the greatest benefits?

Just the fact that [Rich Jr. is] so hands-on, and so conscientious. When the phone rings, people want to talk to him because he’s so knowledgeable, so involved in the business. His concern is in the business: he’s always looking for something to improve, to make better.

Will you keep the business in the family when you retire?

I’m hoping that he takes it over, when the time comes. Right now, it seems that way but you never know what’s going to happen.

Does work come up at the kitchen table?

In some degree, it does come up. We do try to leave it out. I have a brother who is also in the automotive business, so in some way or another we wind up talking about cars.

What is your favorite part of being a member of The Alternative Board?

I like getting with other owners and discussing the problems together. Even though we may not be in the same field, we can still get ideas for our different problems.