We had the good fortune of connecting with Nick Preston and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Nick, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I always saw myself growing up to be an entrepreneur. A lot of successful and powerful figures within my community on the Southwest side of Houston, TX. owned businesses and became by role models. I liked the idea of being able to build something from scratch and creating a culture where people would want to work for me.
When in business ventures or operating in my luxury car service, CNP Luxury Transportation; I feel honored everyday to operate in my purpose. I have the opportunity to work with influential people from all over the world and provide them the best experience riding with CNP.
I am super proud of all the obstacles and successes that we have endured as a business and I know that that feeling I get only comes from being an entrepreneur. This is my ministry, my purpose, I have a responsibility to serve, to give back, and to provide luxury car service.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
CNP Luxury Transportation was founded on the Christian principals and rooted from my home church in Houston, TX. The Lighthouse Church under the leadership of Pastor Keion Henderson. Not only am I his personal driver but also his amour bearer/right hand man in ministry. That’s where I got my start in this business and from that one opportunity to serve my pastor I grew rapidly within my community. I am most proud that my gift made room for me. It sounds cliché but it’s the truth. I am where I am today because of my faith, my determination to never stop even when life’s challenges occur, and staying in my lane. It hasn’t always been easy, I could’ve quit on many occasions but I promised my sons that I would leave them a legacy that they could be proud of. I grew from having one client on Good Friday, year 2013, to becoming one of the most well known black owned luxury car service providers in Houston, Dallas, Austin, Chicago, and Los Angeles. I transport high end clients, celebrities, top executives, and athletes daily. I’m most proud that in a industry that’s a slippery slope I have been able to thrive year after year. I give God all the glory for my continued success.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the world. We have so much culture and love in the city. I would start Friday off with happy hour at Lost & Found in Midtown then end the night at the Savoy Ice House in 3rd ward. On Saturday, it’s usually hot outside so I would start the day poolside at the Post Oak Hotel and hang out at the H Bar. The spa is one of the best in the city so I would book a hot stone massage to chill and relax. At night, I would eat at Mastro’s for dinner and end at James Harden’s bar/lounge for drinks and good music. Sunday, I would recommend church then brunch at Lucilles in 3rd ward for live music and good creole cuisine.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When I was making the life altering decision to transition from working in Corporate America to being a CEO of my own company I constantly read books and asked my mentors questions. One book that changed my life and still to this day plays a vital part in my life decisions is, Rich Dad Poor Dad.
The fact that I am a millenial, my parents haven’t shared any financial tips when I was growing up. I didn’t understand the importance of being financially secure nor did I understand the importance of credit scores. I grew up knowing that working a 9 to 5 job and getting 401K was the “safe” thing to do. Fast forward, I am now 34 years old with two kids and still running my company for over 9 years (as Robert Kiyosaki says). After reading this book, I’ve learned a lot. It’s possible to push aside fear and hesitation and do things that not only takes me out of my comfort zone but also takes me out of my financial barriers.
Website: Cnpluxury.com
Instagram: @Cnpluxury
Facebook: CNP Luxury Transportation