14 - Revolutionizing Military History Experiences with Drive Tanks
Unleashing History: The Unique Experience of DriveTanks.com with Spencer Tesanovich
In a recent episode of the podcast, HR Huntsman had the opportunity to speak with Spencer Tesanovich, co-founder of DriveTanks.com, a one-of-a-kind business that brings military history to life on an 18,000-acre ranch in Texas Hill Country. Just outside of San Antonio, this immersive experience allows guests to climb into, drive, and even fire real tanks. The conversation with Spencer explored the origin of DriveTanks, the value of hiring veterans, how to create passion within a team, and what it takes to lead across generational lines. This blog recaps the powerful insights and practical lessons Spencer shared during the episode.
Introduction to DriveTanks.com
DriveTanks.com is not your average museum—it’s a fully immersive experience designed to engage people with military history in a tangible, unforgettable way. Rather than simply observing historical artifacts behind glass, visitors at DriveTanks are encouraged to step into the vehicles, take them for a spin, and even shoot live rounds in a safe and controlled environment. This hands-on approach has set DriveTanks apart as a destination where history feels alive and deeply personal.
The Genesis of DriveTanks.com
The business was originally the vision of Brent Oxley, founder of HostGator, who wanted to pursue a passion project after his success in the tech world. With support from his stepfather Todd, a retired Green Beret, and Spencer’s own military background, they started by purchasing a single tank. The operation has since grown into a remarkable collection of 19 tanks and counting. It was a shared love for military history and an entrepreneurial spirit that brought this concept to life, turning it into an unforgettable destination for history buffs, veterans, and thrill seekers alike.
Hiring Veterans and Building a Strong Team
Spencer, a veteran himself, places great importance on hiring individuals from the veteran community. Veterans bring a wealth of real-world training, an understanding of teamwork, and the kind of discipline that is critical for a high-performance environment like DriveTanks. Even when candidates don’t have specific experience with armored vehicles, their military background gives them a solid foundation to build upon. In addition to their technical ability, veterans understand the camaraderie that DriveTanks thrives on, making them an ideal fit for the culture.
He also shared that passion is a key ingredient when building a strong team. Employees who love what they do are more invested in creating exceptional guest experiences. Passionate team members help foster a workplace culture where engagement is high and people genuinely enjoy coming to work. That energy, in turn, is felt by every visitor who walks through the doors.
Cultivating Passion and Engagement
In an industry as niche as historical tank driving, finding passionate employees isn’t always easy. Spencer explained that one of the best ways to cultivate enthusiasm is by creating a dynamic work environment. At DriveTanks, cross-training is a major part of this strategy. By rotating employees through different responsibilities—from maintenance to guest services—employees develop a wider skill set and avoid the monotony that can come with doing the same thing day in and day out. This approach encourages continuous learning and keeps team members challenged and curious.
Recognizing employee efforts and celebrating their accomplishments also plays a vital role in maintaining morale. It’s not just about salary and benefits—people want to feel seen, heard, and valued. Spencer makes it a point to highlight wins and reinforce the impact each team member has on the business.
Leadership Styles Across Generations
Spencer noted that his team is primarily made up of younger workers, mostly millennials. To lead effectively across generations, he believes it’s important to recognize what drives people. For younger employees, it’s often purpose and meaning. They want their work to count for something and to know they’re contributing to a bigger vision. Spencer tailors his leadership style accordingly, providing opportunities for growth, open feedback, and meaningful connections to the company's mission.
When working with older team members, Spencer recognizes the importance of honoring their experience and providing stability and clear expectations. Adapting leadership styles based on generational dynamics allows him to motivate and connect with his entire team more effectively, regardless of their background or age.
Future Growth and Vision
Looking ahead, Spencer is excited about the growth potential of DriveTanks.com. He shared plans to expand their collection of military vehicles, which will allow for even more varied and exciting guest experiences. As the business grows, so too does its potential to reach broader audiences.
Another avenue for expansion is through collaborations with entertainment brands like Warner Brothers. These partnerships could bring DriveTanks into new realms such as gaming and film, providing unique cross-promotional opportunities that align with the company’s mission of engaging the public in history in fun and innovative ways.
Conclusion
This episode with Spencer Tesanovich offers an inspiring look at how passion, purpose, and leadership can create a one-of-a-kind business like DriveTanks.com. From its humble beginnings with one tank to its current status as a world-renowned destination, DriveTanks is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and smart hiring. Spencer’s emphasis on supporting veterans, cultivating a culture of engagement, and understanding the different motivations of a multi-generational team offers practical wisdom for any leader looking to build something meaningful.
Whether you're a business owner, manager, or simply a fan of entrepreneurial stories, Spencer’s journey serves as a reminder that success doesn’t come from staying conventional—it comes from daring to do things differently and leading with heart.
