From High School Dropout to CEO: Wyatt's Bold Journey

Wyatt Lewis’ journey from a high school dropout to the CEO of Classic Restoration and Construction is a story of grit, resilience, and determination. In this episode of the Bold Moves podcast, Wyatt sits down with host Matt Torres to share how he turned life’s challenges into stepping stones for success. From overcoming personal setbacks to building a thriving business, Wyatt’s story is packed with insights and inspiration for anyone looking to make bold moves in their life or career.

The Early Struggles That Shaped Wyatt’s Journey

Wyatt’s path wasn’t easy. Born and raised in Arizona, his teenage dreams of playing professional football were cut short when a devastating car accident left him with severe injuries and shattered aspirations. The accident caused him to drop out of high school, leaving him at a crossroads. Instead of giving up, Wyatt found a new calling by working for his father’s contracting business, where he developed the skills that would later fuel his entrepreneurial ambitions.

Reflecting on those early days, Wyatt shared, “I thought I’d be working for my dad forever. But when that path didn’t work out, it forced me to realize I needed to create my own opportunities.” That realization set the stage for what would become one of the boldest moves of his life.

Taking the Leap: Launching Classic Restoration and Construction

In March 2022, Wyatt made the pivotal decision to leave a contractor role that didn’t align with his values. With encouragement from his fiancée and a business partner, he took the leap to start Classic Restoration and Construction. The decision wasn’t without risks—Wyatt sold his truck and other personal assets to fund the business and started with just $3 in his bank account.

“That was the hardest move I’ve ever made,” Wyatt admitted. “I had no safety net, a baby on the way, and a dream that felt almost impossible. But I knew I couldn’t raise my son the way I wanted to while working for someone else.”

Despite early challenges, including failing his contractor’s license exam the first time and rebuilding the business after losing a partner, Wyatt persevered. Today, Classic Restoration and Construction is thriving, specializing in insurance restoration and custom remodeling. His team has grown, and Wyatt is preparing to expand to a second location in California.

The Power of Mindset and Perseverance

Wyatt’s story is a testament to the power of mindset. “I’ve been told by many people—including family—that I wouldn’t succeed. But every time I got knocked down, I got back up stronger,” he shared. Wyatt credits much of his resilience to his support system: his fiancée Amanda, who also manages the office, and his son Walker, who inspires him to keep pushing forward.

Wyatt has also embraced a philosophy of continuous learning and self-improvement, drawing inspiration from figures like Andy Frisella and Alex Hormozi. His favorite mantra? “Today is the day, and the time is now.” This mindset has helped him navigate challenges, from the pressures of entrepreneurship to the emotional toll of losing a business partner.

Building a Legacy Rooted in Excellence

For Wyatt, success isn’t just about financial gains or material rewards—it’s about building a legacy. “When I started Classic, I wanted it to stand for something timeless, something rooted in trust and excellence. That’s why we chose the name ‘Classic,’” he explained.

Wyatt’s leadership philosophy revolves around teamwork and integrity. He sees himself as the quarterback of his team, emphasizing that success is a collective effort. “We’re only as strong as our weakest link. I rely on my team as much as they rely on me,” he said.

Looking ahead, Wyatt is focused on expanding his business and pursuing new ventures, including disaster relief efforts for areas affected by hurricanes and wildfires. His ultimate goal? To create a company that not only thrives but also gives back to the community.

Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Wyatt’s journey offers valuable takeaways for anyone looking to take bold steps in their own lives:

• Embrace risk: Wyatt’s decision to leave a secure job and launch his own business was a gamble, but it ultimately paid off because he believed in his vision.

• Invest in relationships: From his supportive fiancée to his dedicated team, Wyatt’s success is rooted in the strong relationships he’s built along the way.

• Learn from failure: Wyatt’s setbacks, including failing his contractor’s license test and losing a business partner, taught him resilience and adaptability.

• Stay true to your values: Wyatt’s commitment to integrity and excellence has been a cornerstone of his success.

Conclusion: Dream Big and Take Action

Wyatt Lewis’ story is a powerful reminder that bold moves can lead to extraordinary outcomes. From his humble beginnings to becoming a CEO, Wyatt shows that with resilience, hard work, and a clear vision, you can overcome any obstacle. His journey is a call to action for anyone feeling stuck or unsure about taking that next step—dream big, believe in yourself, and take action.

What bold move are you ready to make? Let Wyatt’s story inspire you to chase your dreams and build the life you’ve always envisioned. Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with us on social media to continue the conversation.

For more stories of fearless innovators and trailblazers like Wyatt, subscribe to the Bold Moves podcast and visit BoldMovesPodcastAZ.com.