Game Changers: Stories of impact, innovation, and building what’s next

From launching purpose-driven ventures to scaling community-rooted businesses, today's entrepreneurs and professionals aren’t just chasing success, they’re building it on their own terms. In this edition, we spotlight the journeys of leaders who turned personal challenges into thriving opportunities, adapted with resilience, and leaned into new tools, communities, and cities to fuel their growth. Whether you're seeking your next move or scaling what you've started, there's insight here for wherever you’re headed next.

When it comes to growing a small business, there’s no one-size-fits-all playbook—but some of the best ideas start with solving a challenge you’ve faced yourself. In this edition of In the Loop, we spotlight the founder of ADS Autobody, who transformed a gap in the auto services market into a trusted, full-service brand. From scaling with intention to earning lifelong customers through integrity and innovation, his story is full of practical insight for any entrepreneur. He also shares how partners like American Express have helped fuel his growth from day one—with flexibility, trust, and support that scales.

Real American Express Card Member made aware his story would be featured in marketing materials.  

You’ve grown ADS Autobody into a one-stop shop for auto detailing and restoration—what’s been your biggest lesson in scaling a specialized service business? Growing ADS into a true one-stop shop came from my own personal need. As the owner of an independent dealership, I needed reliable, high-quality detailing and restoration services for our cars. But I quickly realized there wasn’t anyone offering all the services I needed under one roof, let alone at a level that could support other businesses in volume. There were great detailers, great body shops, great restoration guys, but none of them worked together or could handle scale. So we built it ourselves. My biggest lesson? The best businesses often come from solving a problem you’ve faced yourself. If you’ve needed it, chances are others do too. 

In a competitive industry like auto services, how do you stay ahead in terms of quality, innovation, and customer trust? You’ve got to stay on your toes. The industry and tech are always changing, and if you’re not adapting, you’re falling behind. I constantly test new tools, products, and techniques—but I always try them myself first. If I wouldn’t use it on my own car, I’m not selling it to a customer. 

That approach builds real trust. People can feel when you’re being authentic and when you actually believe in what you’re saying. That’s what creates loyal customers. 

As a small business owner, how do you evaluate where to invest? That answer’s changed over time. When you're first starting out, banks can be hesitant to help. You’ve got no credit history and no track record, so you’ve got to be smart with what you’ve got. 

Early on, I went all-in on branding and experience. I wanted someone to feel the value the moment they saw our logo, business card, or walked into the shop. Back when I had just a tiny hole-in-the-wall office, I turned the Bay Area into my office. I’d meet clients at their location or somewhere neutral—dressed professionally, laptop and wireless printer in hand. (Back in 2008, that was a big flex!) Clients were impressed, and it built trust fast. 

People judge books by covers. Don’t fight that, just make sure your “cover” represents who you are and what you stand for. 

How has American Express supported your business? Amex has been a solid partner from the jump. Having access to financial flexibility with products designed for business gave me room to prove myself and grow. On the personal side, the peace of mind and protection is unmatched. And the perks are real, I’ve flown business class to amazing places just using Membership Rewards® points. I even referred one of my closest friends, Evan from Senior Sisig, and now he’s team Amex too. Like I said before, if I haven’t personally used and benefited from something, I won’t recommend it. But with Amex, it’s been a no-brainer. 

How do you turn a one-time customer into a lifelong advocate, especially when working with something as personal as their car? That part’s actually natural for me. I give people honest advice, even if it doesn’t mean a sale. If we’re not the right fit, I’ll tell them straight up and refer them somewhere that might work better. 

I’ve had plenty of people tell me they appreciated that and came back later, or sent friends and family our way. It’s all about doing what’s right for the customer, not just trying to make a buck. 

How has being active on LinkedIn helped grow your brand, connect with partners, or attract new business opportunities? LinkedIn has helped us showcase our work in a way that speaks to other professionals. It’s expanded our reach beyond just the local scene and brought in new partnerships and business opportunities. Posting consistently builds trust and puts a face to the name. It lets people know what we’re about—quality, passion, and staying ahead of the game. 

What’s the one piece of advice you wish you had when you started ADS Autobody, that you now give to others stepping into entrepreneurship? Don’t let other people project their fears onto you. A lot of people will doubt you, but it’s not always hate, it’s just their reality. They weren’t given the same vision as you. What seems impossible to them isn’t meant for them to understand. Enjoy the process. It’s not just about success, it’s about who you become and what you learn on the journey. You’ll gain more from the tough times than the easy wins. Fall forward, keep getting up, and let others help you when they can. And when you look back, you’ll realize those stressful moments weren’t so bad after all, you’ll wish you enjoyed the ride a little more.

LinkedIn Cities on the Rise 2025: The 25 fastest-growing U.S. metros for jobs and new talent

LinkedIn News just unveiled Cities on the Rise, their first-ever list spotlighting the 25 fastest-growing U.S. metros for job momentum and professional migration. The ranking is powered by LinkedIn’s exclusive labor market insights — analyzing where professionals are getting hired, jobs are being posted and new talent is putting down roots. Whether you’re looking for a new job or considering relocating, these are the cities where opportunity is on the rise. So what’s fuelling the surge in these cities?

📈 Top industries driving growth:

🏥 Healthcare and 🏗️ manufacturing are key engines of hiring across every metro on the list, supporting local economies and creating long-term opportunities.

🎓 Education is booming too, especially in regions with expanding universities and rising school-age populations.

🖥️ And in several cities, tech investment—especially in data centers—is powering a new wave of job creation.

From Austin to Reno to Fort Wayne, these cities are writing the next chapter of economic opportunity.

👉 Explore the full list: linkedin.com/CitiesontheRiseUS

💬 Join the conversation: Share what you’re seeing in your region using #CitiesOnTheRise

✏️You can learn more about our methodology and why we produced this ranking here

🌍 You can also check out Cities on the Rise in Germany and India.

From Goals to Growth: Alex Morgan on reinventing herself beyond the field

Changing direction takes courage, on the field and in life. Olympic gold medalist, World Cup champion, and trailblazing entrepreneur Alex Morgan knows this firsthand.

We sat down with the soccer icon to explore how she’s channeling her competitive spirit into a powerful new chapter—co-founding TOGETHXR, a storytelling platform spotlighting the next generation of women’s sports.

In our conversation, Alex opens up about: ⚡ Why she pivoted from athlete to founder 🛡️ How she builds resilience through uncertainty 🌍 The mission behind TOGETHXR and why representation matters

Whether you’re chasing your first goal or plotting your next big move, your journey starts with clarity and confidence—just like Alex.

Ready for your own pivot? Let LinkedIn’s AI-powered job search guide the way: linkedin.com/jobs

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Evil boss? We’ve teamed up with Smurfs: The Movie to help you find your next move

Joel’s job isn’t exactly a dream gig, but feeling stuck in the wrong role isn’t just a movie moment, it’s real life.

In our latest partnership with Smurfs, we’re shining a light on what it’s like to be in a role that doesn’t quite fit, and how LinkedIn can help you discover what’s next. Whether your boss is a bit of a supervillain or you're just ready for something new, we’ve got you.

Smurfs: The Movie is out now, only in theatres.

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