Pacific Coast Business Times: 40 Under Forty: Class of 2003

Pacific Coast Business Times
Editorial by: Henry Dubrof
October 2003

“Entrepreneurial brothers are moving right along.”

While some high schoolers were earning extra money with fast-food jobs or chucking newspapers, Aaron and Evan Steed spent their time on what would quickly grow to be the largest moving company in the Tri-Counties.

Meathead Movers, named for its employment base of athletes, now handles about 240 moves every month and employs more than 100 people. It has two offices in San Luis Obispo and will open a third in Santa Maria this November, with hopes of expanding to major college towns across America.

The business was created around the simple tenet of superior customer service, and earned a reputation for hard work, honesty and being both fast and careful. Aaron Steed was a high-school junior in 1997 when the brothers began posting flyers advertising their services, and Evan Steed was a freshman. Now 23 and 21 years old, respectively, the co-owners are still the youngest licensed professional movers in the United States. Aaron Steed handles marketing and sales, while Evan Steed serves as operations manager.

Meathead Movers has made a point of giving back to the community. From September to December this year, it will donate $15 from every move to Santa Maria’s Save Our Schools program. Collaborating with other businesses including Jiffy Lube, McDonald’s and AT&T, they hope to raise $600,000.

For three years, Meathead Movers has partnered with the Women’s Shelters of San Luis Obispo and Santa Maria, offering a free move to any woman who is the victim of domestic abuse. In that time, it has moved some 40 women and their children.

What is the best piece of business advice you have received?
Aaron: I know a negative attitude toward others will never bring success.
Evan: A positive attitude is contagious. But I must add my favorite quote, which is from my freshman English teacher, Mr. Huttle: “The secret to life is enjoying the passing of time.” I love that quote.

What music is in your CD player right now?
Aaron: Metallica.
Evan: There are over 100 CDs in the changer, and I always hit “random” so it will play rock, then classical, hip-hop, then heavy metal, and even an occasional Christmas tune.

If you were running for governor, what would your motto be?
Aaron: “What men can perceive, he can achieve.”
Evan: Will the last business owner leaving California please turn out the lights?”