Spirit Lines is a delivery and transfer service that primarily delivers wine and liquor products to local businesses such as Hy-Vee, Spikes Beach Bar & Grille, and Kwik Shop. If you buy a bottle of wine at a grocery store, there is a good chance it was delivered by Spirit Lines at some point. In addition, they offer a number of services other than beverage distribution, including handling laundry items, secured document transfer, and transporting glass windshields among other things. Jason Von Kaenel is the CEO and Business Manager of Spirit Lines.
How did you get started in the business? – Contracting numerous accounts was a big part of my corporate life and early in my career I always found success in client and contractor relations. A friend came across this opportunity to start a trucking company so we went after it. I have always believed in the potential for the transport of durable goods. It’s something the internet can’t take away from us.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – It is certainly the changing world we live in. I never imagined that things would change so quickly and society would move so fast when I was younger. There is always competition and there is always something cheaper, better, and faster.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Leaving the umbrella of the corporate world and starting my own business. It is nerve-racking at times but also has rewards. Business decisions carry a much heavier weight when they will impact the life of your family. Whether it is time that I can spend with them or the security of our future, these decisions are all more important now.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I spent three years trying to be a professional racquetball player and had the opportunity to spend some time at the Olympic training center in Colorado Springs. I won a few matches, and lost a lot more, but it was a great experience.
What are you the most proud of? – My family and my daughter, Alexandria.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Treat people with respect no matter what.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Vigilant
Which talent would you most like to have? – I would really like to be able to sing. I have tried and sadly there is no way I will ever carry a tune. I am amazed by the ability of people that can sing.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – ‘The World is Flat’ by Thomas Friedman. It is really intriguing and talks about how the ability to communicate with anyone in the world, instantly and individually, has changed our lives.
What is your favorite TV show? – Star Trek the Next Generation. It pretty much made my year when it came out on Netflix. I have the DVD’s but now it is easier to watch random episodes. I actually believe Star Trek is the true inventor of the iPad…no discredit to the amazing Steve Jobs who made it a reality.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Anywhere that serves fish tacos!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – By email at Jason@spiritlinestrans.com or you can visit our website at www.spiritlinestrans.com.