In this episode of The Bloc Power Hour, Sarah Harris sits down with TJ Loftin—legendary car builder, economic futurist, and filmmaker—to explore the intersection of culture, craftsmanship, and economic power.

His first film project, the WORKING WITH THE HANDS documentary, shines a national spotlight on the custom car and bike industry—not just as culture, but as a viable, scalable economic engine rooted in trades, mentorship, and self-sufficiency. The film, which has already earned Outstanding Documentary recognition, elevates a powerful and often overlooked pathway to economic mobility.

From building one of the largest automotive enterprises in the lowrider industry to advising communities on gentrification and ownership strategy, TJ has spent decades identifying overlooked opportunities and turning them into wealth-building pathways.

This conversation unpacks:

• The hidden multibillion-dollar economy behind classic cars
• Trades as a pathway to economic mobility
• Gentrification and how to strategically respond through ownership
• Preparing communities for major economic moments like the 2028 Olympics
• Why building with your hands can still build generational wealth

If you value conversations that move insight into impact, support this work at bbala.org.

Follow the show: @blocpowerhour @blackbusinessassociation @sarahharrisceo_

Follow TJ Loftin: @thomastjloftin | http://loftinimpalaparts.com