Strong Box Storage is Lincoln and Omaha’s premier self-storage facility. Since the first phase of the storage facility was built in 1994, Strong Box Storage has been locally and family owned and operated. The third phase was recently completed in 2013 which included expansion into Omaha, right before their 20th anniversary. Tom Friedman is the owner of Strong Box Storage.
How did you get started in the business? – Like many businesses, I stumbled into this line of work. I needed storage for my home building business, and Strong Box Storage fit into my business plan seamlessly.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – I have had several different careers, and each came with its own set of challenges. I owned and operated a greenhouse and nursery, a successful home building company, and I now currently own two self-storage facilities.
Tell me a little about your family. – I am a fourth generation Nebraskan. I have been happily married for 34 years to my lovely wife, Sue and we have two grown children.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Too many to count, but with all of the major turning points in my life and my professional career, I am so thankful for my wife Sue’s support. So with that being said, the biggest turning point in my life was definitely meeting her.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – On a day off and in my spare time, I enjoy blowing glass, playing the guitar, and playing golf. Sometimes I get all three into one day off!
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I am a glass torch worker. I make custom marbles, pendants and perfume bottles. My work is currently displayed at the Joslyn Art Museum and select galleries across the country.
What are you the most proud of? – I am most proud of my wife and children.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – If you treat people with honesty and respect, you will receive the same back.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Creative.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life? – I sing and play the guitar.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – I would focus more on being an artist and working with glass.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – I like the books written by Terry Goodkind. He was raised in Omaha, too.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – There are so many! But to narrow it down, I really enjoy La Casa, Julio’s and Dario’s.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Ben Franklin
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – You can reach me through my business email at papillion@strongboxstorage.com or visit the Strong Box Storage website at StrongBoxStorage.com.