Star City Six – Shane Leon
TooFast Supply is a locally owned and operated distributor of construction and industrial supplies. Shane Leon is the operations manager at TooFast Supply (www.toofastsupply.com).
Tell us a little about your business.
We sell commercial grade power tools, fasteners, hand tools, chemicals, and a plethora of other items to meet the needs of our wide customer base. Founded in 2007, we now have three locations in Nebraska: Lincoln, Grand Island, and Omaha.
How did you get started in the business?
While attending the University of Nebraska at Kearney, I worked part time for a construction and industrial distributor. I really enjoyed it, so I decided to make a career of it and I obtained a bachelors degree in industrial distribution. 2019 marks year 15 in this industry for me!
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
I have often wanted to further my education and obtain a graduate degree, but my hatred for debt has kept me from pursuing that path.
Tell us a little about your family.
I married my beautiful wife, Natalie, on the Hawaiian island of Kauai in 2015. We have a three-year-old West Highland Terrier, who goes by Zeke. In 2017, Natalie opened Visiting Angels, an in-home care service for the elderly in our community. Zeke is a licensed therapy dog and gets to travel with Natalie to various retirement communities, bringing joy to many.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
In 2003, I joined the US Marine Corps after graduating high school with the dream of becoming an intelligence specialist. Two months in to basic training, I was hit with pneumonia. After battling the illness for two months, I was sent home. I thought I had many years planned out. It really changed my perspective on life. I realized you still have to plan for the future, but anything can happen, so you have to live for today!
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Hunting or fishing—just being out in nature, away from it all.
Who inspires you?
My parents. They both had wonderful work ethics and it was instilled in me that if you put in the time and work hard, the possibilities are endless.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
My grandfather was a biologist his entire life and he had a saying, “Each living thing is astonishing in its own right. The challenge is to find its special beauty.” I feel this goes beyond nature. If we take a moment to reflect, we all have a great amount to be thankful for.
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
“Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
Being an Eagle Scout, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has always held a special place in my heart. The leadership and life skills the BSA teach our youth is invaluable.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
Resisting Happiness by Matthew Kelly.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Honest Abes. Love them Freedom Fries!
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
WWE Superstar “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. He was my childhood idol.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Phone: (402) 435-3100; Email: shane@toofastsupply.com; Website: www.toofastsupply.com.