We’re looking forward to introducing you to Patrick Ellefson. Check out our conversation below.
Patrick, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
One of the proudest moments for me recently was hearing the incredible news that, just two months ago, we made the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S. It was a huge milestone—something I’ve always aimed for—and a moment that made me deeply proud of my company and the amazing team behind it.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Patrick Ellefson — CEO and founder of RPM Garage in Dallas, Texas.
RPM Garage is a specialty and performance car dealership built around passion, transparency, and culture. We focus on high-end, unique vehicles — from fast Mustangs and lots of muscle cars to rare imports and exotic cars — but what truly sets us apart is our commitment to doing things differently.
I started RPM from the ground up with the goal of redefining what a car-buying experience should feel like. It’s not just about selling cars; it’s about building a brand that people trust, creating a culture that inspires our team, and connecting enthusiasts through a shared passion for performance and excellence.
We’ve grown exponentially since our early days, recently earning a spot on the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S. — a huge milestone for me personally and a testament to the incredible team behind RPM.
Right now, we’re focused on scaling the brand, expanding our digital reach, and continuing to raise the bar in customer experience and dealership culture. RPM has always been about more than cars — it’s about people, energy, and ambition.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memory of feeling powerful was when I sold my first car on my own. I still remember the feeling — the mix of excitement, risk, and belief that I could actually build something from nothing. It wasn’t about the money; it was about realizing I could create opportunity through pure effort, instinct, and passion.
That moment lit a fire in me. It showed me that if I put in the work, stayed consistent, and trusted my vision, I could shape my own path. That same drive is what led to building RPM Garage — taking a passion for cars and turning it into one of the fastest-growing private companies in the country.
Power to me has never been about control — it’s about freedom. The freedom to build, to grow, and to inspire others to chase something bigger.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There were definitely moments I almost gave up.
Building RPM Garage from scratch wasn’t glamorous — it was long nights, financial risk, and a lot of faith when the results weren’t immediate. There were times when things felt like they were falling apart — when deals fell through, cash flow got tight, and the pressure felt heavier than the progress.
But what kept me going was the vision. I knew deep down this brand had potential — not just to sell cars, but to build something special, something people would remember. Every setback became fuel. Every doubt turned into a challenge.
Looking back, those “almost gave up” moments were the exact ones that shaped me the most. They taught me resilience, leadership, and the importance of surrounding myself with the right people — the kind of team that pushes through when things get hard.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
What people see online or through RPM’s brand is definitely a reflection of who I am: driven, ambitious, and passionate about building something great. But behind that, there’s the part most don’t see — the long hours, the doubts, the constant pressure to keep growing and leading.
I’ve learned to show up consistently as myself — whether I’m closing a deal, talking to my team, or just being me outside of work. The “public” version is authentic, but it’s also the version that carries the weight of responsibility.
The real me is a mix of both — the entrepreneur people see, and the person who’s always pushing, learning, and evolving behind the scenes.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel the most at peace when I’m at home, just laying around with my wife, watching a show or doing nothing at all. My life moves fast — work, growth, constant goals — but those quiet moments remind me what really matters. Having someone who brings me peace when everything else is moving a hundred miles an hour is something I’m truly thankful for. That balance keeps me grounded and helps me reset so I can go back out and give my best every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rpmgaragetx.com
- Instagram: @rpmgaragedallas
- Facebook: @rpmgaragedallas
- Youtube: @rpmgaragedallas
Image Credits
@rpmgaragedallas social media team
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