Car rental agencies have been around for decades. But an exotic car rental agency? Now that’s not something you usually see every day. We caught up with Ethan Duran to find out a little more about this exciting branch of an otherwise mundane industry.
Only 22 years old, Ethan is the CEO of Corsa Auto Rental in Los Angeles. Initially moving to LA for a career in investment banking, this New York native stumbled into the exotic car rental market by chance. With a passion for cars and a willingness to put in the hard work, Ethan netted $2.7 million in only his first year in the business. Instead of agreeing that hard works beats out talent, he feels that he is talented at working hard.
Ethan’s drive for success has as much horsepower as the cars he rents out. His biggest challenge was getting through the tough initial phase of his business. Yet, to him, progression is as addictive as a drug, and he is willing to overcome the hard times for the success. Ethan also has a very unique mindset when it comes to those uncertain financial hurdles: debt should be used to make more money. While he feels that making money is easy, changing your mindset for this to happen is the difficult part.
For entrepreneurs starting their own businesses and brands, Ethan cannot stress more on the importance of building trust, especially if you are very young. He realizes that reputations are critical, and when the odds are against you, trust and proven responsibility will get you a long way. Ethan has not only built trusting relationships with his customers, but he also treats them like family and has cultivated many fulfilling friendships.
To support his business expansion, Ethan has launched the Exotic Car Rental Academy to teach people how to start their own companies. With the help of students from all over the world and through networking with each other’s clients, Ethan has built an active referral network for Corsa Auto Rental. Projects in the works include a location in Miami, a watercraft rental, and a companion media company.
Ethan is just getting started and looks forward to showing the world his full potential. Proud of his Dominican heritage, he wants to be a role model to other Dominicans and represent his people through his success. Speaking of success, Ethan is no longer bound to 18 hours a day, 7 days a week, as his business practically runs itself, letting him fully enjoy the financial freedom he worked so hard for.
