Smart Franchising with Fransmart

In an era where technology is advancing at lightning speed, franchisors must adapt or risk being left behind. Enter Jeremy Brazeal, a visionary from Reality Interactive, who who previously led groundbreaking consumer, digital engagement, and advertising work for global icons like The LEGO Group and The Coca-Cola Company. Now agency-side at Reality, he's helping redefine how brands connect with customers through the power of AI and smart retail tools. Jeremy's keen focus on using tech to cultivate customer affinity has propelled him to the cutting edge of AI innovation in franchising.In this episode of Smart Franchising Podcast, Jeremy reveals:How AI serves as an invisible but invaluable friend in driving customer loyaltyThe creative ways AI tools are boosting revenue streams in unexpected sectorsStrategies for integrating AI seamlessly without overwhelming your budgetReal-world examples of AI transforming the athletics industry through hyper-personalizationWays AI can refine the in-store experience and streamline customer interactionsOn AI's Role as a Brand's Best FriendJeremy Brazeal: “AI could very much have the person on the other side, the cashier, be AI. That cashier is also, to an extent, a nutritionist...So in the future world that is now, sometimes the cashier is a nutritionist.”On Creating Value Through TechnologyJeremy Brazeal: “The big shift that's happened is really about the power of the hardware and then AI's ability to access a ton of data points at once...you want to have that conversation. It's personal. You want those solutions personalized to you.”On Core Mission FocusJeremy Brazeal: "What is that mission that you're trying to accomplish that's going to differentiate you from your competitors? What is that core mission? And then if you're going to incorporate something like an AI tool, how does it help you achieve that core mission? And if it doesn't, don't do it."

Mike Hamra's family legacy in the franchising industry spans generations. In this episode of Smart Franchising Podcast, Mike joins Dan Rowe as he shares insights into his remarkable journey from practising law to leading a powerhouse in the franchise world.In this episode of Smart Franchising Podcast, Mike reveals:The Hamra family's journey as Wendy's franchisees since 1975Growing a 200+ franchise empire across Wendy's, Panera, and NoodlesInvesting in people and training to transform operationsFamily values and harmony as keys to multi-generational successNavigating the challenges and rewards of a family-owned businessOn the Importance of Engaging LeadershipMike: “You have to be a really strong leader, but you also have to manage. There's a difference between being a leader and somebody who's gonna manage your business. Managing your business is really creating a structure that things flow into the restaurant and get managed.”On Building a Culture of ExcellenceMike: “We pay our student employees in high school and college to do their homework in our stores. That really drives a very different kind of culture inside our organization that, you know, you don't see across the industry.”On the Future of Hamra EnterprisesMike: “We're committed to a future of growth and continuing to develop or acquire markets where we can support people that work for us and their families. In ten years, we should be double in size, should be easily because we're getting to that size now where we can take bigger bites on acquisitions.”

How do you turn a small franchise into a massive empire?In this episode, Dan Rowe chats with Neel Bhargava, co-founder of NB Group, who's reshaping the world of franchise investment with his unique multi-unit, multi-brand approach. Neel's journey took him from the world of consulting and private equity to becoming a powerhouse entrepreneur, scaling some of the most successful brands in the franchise space.In this episode of Smart Franchising Podcast, Neel reveals:-How he invested in Crunch Fitness group that scaled from just 10 locations to over 65-The European Wax Center's strategic growth and how it sparked huge expansion-Franchise investment: the pros and cons from a private equity perspective-Managing the complexities of team building, financial infrastructure, and making the right investmentsOn the Investment Strategy that Drove Exponential GrowthNeel: “You start with a platform business, and then you make add-on acquisitions to build it... Rolling up a couple of franchisees to get the volume and continue growth while managing the challenges of integrating various companies.”On Embracing the Franchising ChallengesNeel: “There are pros and cons to franchising... Some of the pros are less upfront thought and work required. There's a playbook that's been written for you... The negatives are, back to the playbook, the quality of that playbook varies and you don't have control to really impact it.”On Leveraging Analytical Insight for SuccessNeel: “We aim to make at least three and a half times our money on every investment... Payback period on that new build CapEx is critical to determining how much we like a multi-unit concept.”

On today's episode, we sit down with SG Ellison, the powerhouse behind a 360+ unit franchise empire and the first-ever Taco Bell Cantina. SG didn't scale by cutting corners—he scaled by investing in people, pushing innovation, and playing the long game. From buying his first 85 units to developing the highest volume Taco Bell in the world, SG's story is a masterclass in thoughtful, purpose-driven growth.In this episode, SG shares:-How he built a 360-unit portfolio across multiple QSR brands-The origin of Taco Bell Cantina and what made it work-How he retains top leaders after major acquisitions-What it means to grow with purpose—not just profit-Why franchisees need a seat at the table in policy conversations“Our purpose is to positively impact the lives of the team and the communities that we serve. And that's it.” If you're serious about scaling smart, leading with intention, and being the kind of franchisee brands fight to land, this episode is unmissable.

On today's episode, we sit down with Amer Wahab, the operator behind one of the most impressive unit economics in fast casual—$5.3M in sales from a single Kettlemans Bagel location. Amer built a powerhouse brand with industry-leading retention, a cult following, and a model that's built to scale. Even through the darkest days of COVID, Kettlemans came out stronger, smarter, and more profitable than ever.In this episode, Amer shares: - The exact systems behind his $5.3M AUV- Why cash flow beats EBITDA in real-world operations- How he slashed turnover to just 37% in an industry averaging 90%- The power of “stay interviews” and culture-first leadership- Why keeping things simple and consistent fuels growth“COVID taught us a valuable lesson... EBITDA is important, but cash is king. When those things happen, you need cash.” – Amer WahabIf you're a franchisee, operator, or aspiring multi-unit owner, this episode is loaded with insights on how to build a business that scales without losing its soul.

On today's episode of the Smart Franchising Podcast, we sit down with Noah Glass, the visionary founder of Olo, who turned an everyday frustration into a billion-dollar tech company that's revolutionizing the restaurant industry. Nearly 20 years ago, Noah imagined a world where you could skip the coffee shop line and order food seamlessly from your phone. Today, Olo processes $26B annually and powers millions of restaurant transactions, helping brands build direct digital connections with their guests. Noah dives into:- The moment that sparked Olo's billion-dollar journey- How guest data is transforming customer loyalty & profitability- Why pickup-only kitchens could be the future of dining- How traditional restaurant brands are thriving with digital-first strategies"We're enabling brands to personalize the guest experience and drive profitable traffic into their concepts, into their operators, into their franchisees." – Noah GlassIf you're a franchisee, franchisor, or entrepreneur in the restaurant space, this episode is a must-listen—packed with insights on scaling smarter, leveraging data, and building an enduring brand.

On today's episode of the Smart Franchising Podcast, we sit down with Kathryn Chayka, the powerhouse who built massive success in franchise turnarounds, taking 12 struggling Wendy's locations and making a multi-million dollar success story. Fresh out of college, Kathryn took over a territory of underperforming Wendy's stores in Quebec and added over $1M in new revenue per location. She's proving that smart strategy, strong leadership, and local marketing can drive explosive franchise growth. Kathryn shares the secrets behind her success, including:- How she transformed struggling stores into high-revenue locations- The power of empowering leadership and supportive teams- Her community-first marketing strategies that boost both sales & loyalty- Post-COVID operational shifts that improved efficiency and profitability- Why learning from top-performing franchisees is key to long-term success “Delivering value doesn't mean sacrificing quality. Customers want great deals on quality products—when they feel they're getting value, sales follow.” Whether you're a franchisee, franchisor, or an entrepreneur looking to scale, this episode is packed with game-changing insights from someone who's built massive success in franchise turnarounds.

On today's episode of the Smart Franchising Podcast, we sit down with Brian Beers, a franchise broker and entrepreneur who built a $45M franchise empire from scratch. At just 37, Brian scaled his franchise portfolio of Midas shops to 33 locations, challenging the norms of franchising and proving that creativity, servant leadership, and strategic thinking can fuel explosive growth. Brian shares the secret to his success including how mastermind groups helped accelerate his business, the importance of shifting from operations to strategy, and why aligning with the franchisor's long-term vision is critical to sustainable expansion. Brian shares, “To truly grow a business, you have to replace yourself in operational roles. Hire, train, and empower your team to handle the day-to-day so you can focus on strategic expansion. It's about progress, not perfection, letting go of control and trusting your people.” Whether you're a franchisor, franchisee, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with invaluable insights from someone who's truly built it all from the ground up!

On today's episode of Smart Franchising Podcast, we sit down with Steve Hockett, CEO of Great Clips, to talk about what it takes to build a legacy business in franchising. Before leading one of the most recognizable brands in the industry, Steve started as a franchisee with a vision. Over the past 36 years, he's helped transform Great Clips from 150 salons to over 4,450—all while keeping the business model simple, efficient, and franchisee-focused. His journey is a testament to the power of disciplined growth, strong relationships, and a commitment to what works. Steve shares how the International Franchise Association (IFA) has helped protect and strengthen the franchising community, why staying laser-focused on haircuts has been a winning strategy, and how Great Clips has managed to avoid franchise litigation for nearly two decades. He also highlights the importance of franchisee involvement in decision-making through committees and task forces, fostering a culture of collaboration that has driven the brand's success. Whether you're a franchisor, franchisee, or just love a great business success story, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss!

Ron Gardner's journey from spinning records to spinning the wheels of justice is nothing short of extraordinary. As a former disc jockey turned trial lawyer, Ron has made a significant impact on the franchising world by protecting franchisees from fraud and unfair practices. Guided by his blue-collar upbringing, his mission is to support individuals striving to improve their circumstances, often against powerful franchisors. In this episode of Smart Franchising Podcast, Ron shares: How franchisors and franchisees can build win-win relationships. The transition from individual franchisee representation to franchise associations. Steve's role as outside general counsel for some of the largest franchise associations, including KFC, Wendy's, and Subway. The role of franchise advisory councils and effective communication channels. Why including franchisees in decision-making can prevent 80% of system issue lawsuits. Advice about fair contract negotiations, non-compete clauses, and technology fees. On Ron's Motivation to Support Franchisees Ron: “Growing up in a blue-collar family, I saw firsthand the struggles and aspirations of hardworking individuals. That fueled my desire to protect those who might not have the means to stand against powerful entities alone. They're not just clients; they're people trying to make a better life for themselves and their families.” On the Ripple Effects of Business Failure Ron: “I've witnessed the devastating consequences of a failing franchise—financial ruin, strained personal relationships. It's like a ripple effect, impacting every facet of a franchisee's life. It's why I emphasize the importance of fair agreements and thoughtful decision-making.” On Franchisor's Ethical Responsibility Ron: “Ethical franchising is not just a buzzword; it's a necessity. California's regulation 919 is a step in the right direction, and I believe other states will follow. Franchisors have a duty to foster trust and fairness. Only then can we truly achieve a win-win situation.”

What does it take to transform a local beauty brand into a franchise powerhouse? In this episode, we sit down with Tyler Moore, COO of GLO30, who's helping turn a local favorite into a rapidly expanding beauty franchise with over 100 locations in development. Before this, Tyler was instrumental in growing brands like Drybar and Elements Massage at Wellbiz, a global wellness franchise leader—so he knows what it takes to make a brand thrive.  From uncovering what separates the top performers from the strugglers to building a customer-first culture that scales, Tyler is spilling the secrets of franchise success: 

Aaron Harper's path to franchising was anything but ordinary. From navigating the glitz and glam of Hollywood to building Rolling Suds into a standout franchise, Aaron has seen both the spotlight and the shadows of entrepreneurship. In this episode of Smart Franchising with Fransmart, he doesn't hold back on what it takes to build a franchise system that truly works—for both the franchisor and the franchisee. Aaron pulls back the curtain on the dark side of franchising, sharing how glossy pitches can fail franchisees when expectations and support aren't aligned. He also offers a roadmap for change, unveiling six strategies to reshape franchising into a transparent, supportive ecosystem. From ethical franchise sales to providing education for franchisees, Aaron paints a picture of what responsible franchising should look like—and why it matters. He even dives into the bold steps the International Franchise Association (IFA) is taking to regulate the sales process and what franchisors must do to set their franchisees up for success, starting with solid systems, proper vetting, and a rethinking of compensation models.If you're passionate about building something bigger than yourself—whether you're a franchisor, broker, or potential franchisee—Aaron's insights will inspire you to rethink what success really means in franchising.

As a law student working shifts in a restaurant, Ray Harrigill couldn't have guessed that would become a launchpad for his franchising journey. Fast-forward 25 years, and Ray has built a thriving multi-unit business, bringing powerhouse brands like Massage Envy, My Salon Suite, and Palm Beach Tan into smaller markets with big returns. In this episode, Ray opens up about the lessons learned from these decisions, why he sees small markets as hidden gems for profitability, and how investing in team culture has helped him build a sustainable, growth-oriented company. In this conversation, Ray shares: - The unexpected benefits of operating in small markets, from lower costs to stronger community ties. - His approach to nurturing talent, creating a workplace where people want to stay and grow. - Insights into the power of owning real estate and the patience required to see these investments pay off. - Why continuously adapting is essential to succeed in a dynamic franchise landscape. Ray's advice for aspiring franchisees is clear: choose a business that fuels your passion, prioritize your customers, and embrace the commitment needed to thrive. From understanding your organization's perception to fine-tuning processes, Ray's journey is a reminder that small steps—paired with patience and purpose—can lead to big success. Fransmart is the global leader in franchise development.

Ross Weisman grew a single Massage Envy location into a 250+ unit empire across eight states. In this episode, he shares key insights from his success as an area representative for Massage Envy and European WaxCenter. Now, as co-founder of Epic Managers, Ross helps franchisees find and keep top talent. His experience shows that great managers are worth the investment - they reduce turnover, improve customer service, and boost profits. This episode offers practical tips on hiring, compensating, and supporting managers to build successful franchise operations, perfect for anyone looking to grow their franchise business through better leadership.

In this episode, Dan Rowe sits down with John Hamburger, President of Franchise Times and Restaurant Finance Monitor, to discuss the secrets of success in the franchising industry. With a wealth of experience in finance and franchising, John shares his insights on industry growth, the challenges faced by restaurant brands, and what makes a strong franchise model. They explore key topics like unit economics, franchisee profitability, and the rising importance of non-food franchises. John also dives into the challenges of access to capital and the ongoing shakeout in the restaurant industry, offering valuable advice for anyone considering franchising. This episode is packed with real-world insights from a true expert in the field.

Join Dan Rowe as he sits down with Irfaan Lalani, co-founder and CEO of Vibe Restaurants, who went from starting with one Little Caesars location to now running over 125+ restaurants across multiple brands, including Little Caesars, Wingstop, and Whataburger. Irfaan talks about the challenges of scaling in small markets, the importance of people in franchising, and the "vibification" process that sets his restaurants apart. He offers an honest look at turning around struggling locations, emphasizing that strong leadership and letting managers take ownership are key to thriving. For anyone serious about growing a franchise, Lalani's journey offers real-world lessons you can't afford to miss.

Starting with just a dream and sheer determination, Andrew Feghali has carved out a remarkable empire in the franchising world. Andrew Feghali, a self-made multi-unit franchisee, shares his journey from working in his family's Little Caesars at 13 to owning over 60 locations across three major brands. In this episode, he reveals the keys to his success, including the importance of operational excellence, investing in people, and building strong partnerships with franchisors. Andrew discusses his approach to growth, the challenges of operating in California, and the value of networking in the franchise industry. He also offers advice for aspiring franchisees, emphasizing the need to hire for future growth and the benefits of joining peer groups. With candid insights on franchise finance, leadership, and scaling operations, this conversation provides a roadmap for success in the competitive world of franchise ownership.

From humble beginnings as a Ukrainian immigrant to becoming a titan in the franchising world, Paul Kushnir shares his remarkable success story on this episode of Smart Franchising with Fransmart.His story is a powerful example of the American dream in action. Paul shares his incredible journey from starting with a single mobile accessory business to becoming the largest franchisee of Sprint stores. Discover how he grew his operations to over 230 stores through smart cash management and strategic growth, all while keeping a firm eye on customer satisfaction and employee engagement.Tune in to learn from Paul's experience and get inspired to take your ownbusiness to new heights!

Peter Holt, CEO of The Joint Chiropractic, brings an impressive 38-year legacy in franchising to today's episode. From his accidental entry into the franchise industry to spearheading a revolution in chiropractic accessibility, Peter shares his journey and the growth of The Joint Chiropractic to nearly 1,000 locations. Discover how simple yet innovative location strategy and delivery changes can transform a traditional medical service into a mainstream wellness option. We also discuss the importance of systems in franchising, the evolution of the industry, and the key traits that make successful franchisees. Tune in to gain unique insights from a seasoned leader on how understanding and executing franchising methodology can lead to monumental success. Fransmart is the global leader in franchise development.

In this episode of Smart Franchising with Fransmart, we sit down with Jay Sonner from North Point, a leading expert in mergers and acquisitions. With extensive experience in the restaurant and franchising industries, Jay shares his valuable insights on crafting a franchise that not only attracts buyers but also commands top dollar. Discover the secrets behind high-stakes deals with renowned brands like Nothing Bundt Cakes and Hand & Stone, and learn what major investors like Roark Capital are really looking for. Jay also explores the growing trend of membership-based franchises and why they are capturing the market's attention. Tune in for insider tips on transforming your franchise into a high-stakes player in the business arena and learn how to position your company for the ultimate sale. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and the Goal of Building a Wealthy Business 06:24 The Sweet Spot in Scale for More Sponsorship Opportunities 12:45 Private Equity's Focus on Growth Opportunities and Proven Unit Models 26:52 Keys to Success for Franchisees in the Industry 37:24 The Importance of Real Estate in Brand Success

In this episode, Dan Rowe interviews Ewell Smith, a franchise broker, about his background and experience in the franchising industry. Ewell shares his extensive experience in running trade associations and dealing with crises, which has shaped his approach to helping entrepreneurs find the right franchise opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of genuine interest and a certain skill set in franchise ownership. Ewell also discusses the role of franchise brokers and the value they bring to the franchising process. He highlights the need for effective communication and building relationships between franchisors and consultants. Ewell provides advice for prospective business owners and offers insights into the franchise assessment process and finding financing. Takeaways ➡️ Genuine interest and a certain skill set are crucial for success in franchise ownership. ➡️ Franchise brokers play a valuable role in helping entrepreneurs find the right franchise opportunities. ➡️ Effective communication and building relationships are key to successful partnerships between franchisors and consultants. ➡️ Prospective business owners should seek franchise attorneys and explore financing options to navigate the franchising process. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:21 Experience with Crisis Management 03:08 Importance of Genuine Interest 04:58 The Support of a Spouse 06:28 The Value of Broker Networks 07:53 The Role of Franchise Brokers 09:37 The Franchise Assessment Process 10:21 Finding Franchisees 11:03 The Importance of Communication 12:19 Knowing When to Say No 12:51 Building a Multi-Unit Franchise Business 13:46 Success Stories 15:03 Finding Franchisees through Leads and Marketing 16:19 Drawing Attention and Building Relationships 17:38 The Power of Marketing 18:49 Working with Franchise Consultants 19:18 Effective Communication with Consultants 20:13 Advice for Prospective Business Owners 21:12 Additional Assistance for Prospects 22:45 Understanding the FDD and Finding Financing 24:10 The Benefits of Using Franchise Consultants 25:05 The Importance of Building Relationships 26:03 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Tune in as Aicha Bascaro, with over 35 years in the franchising industry, shares her expert insights on the challenges and strategies of running a successful franchise. Aicha, who founded the American Franchise Academy, shares her insights on the gap between what franchisors teach and what franchisees need to succeed. Learn the importance of building effective systems for managing multiple franchise units, the role of leadership in franchise success, and how franchisees can prepare to scale their operations effectively. This episode is packed with practical advice from her extensive experience with global brands. It is essential for anyone involved in franchising, whether you're starting out or looking to grow your business. Listen now to gain valuable insights from a seasoned franchising pro. Chapters 00:00Introduction and Background 07:49 The Gap Between Franchisor Training and Franchisee Success 14:01 Challenges of Scaling from One to Multiple Units 20:42 Key Attributes of Successful Franchisees 22:45 What Franchisors Should Teach 27:12 Addressing Financial Challenges 35:58 Helping Franchisees Get Back on Track 40:46 The Importance of Systems and Processes 42:39 Learning from Successful Franchisees 43:07 Lessons from 'Multi-Unit Franchise Mastery' 43:08 Scaling the Organization 44:35 The Journey of Growth 45:08 The Role of Franchisees 46:05 Supporting Franchisors

From humble beginnings in food distribution to becoming a franchise king with over 50 Five Guys locations, Bill Gellert's story is one of remarkable transformation and savvy business expertise. Learn about Bill's early days selling Cinnabon franchises before he and his family took a chance on a then-small burger business called Five Guys and discover how Bill leveraged his experience in food distribution and his keen sense for great locations to build a franchise empire. This episode is packed with unique insights from a leader who knows how to grow a business from the ground up while maintaining a commitment to quality and community. Tune in for an insightful discussion full of practical tips and firsthand experiences that reveal how simplicity and consistency lead to business success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:36 Getting Started in Franchising 06:05 Keys to Success as a Franchisee 09:44 Three Things That Lead to Success 11:52 The Importance of Hiring and Retaining Good People 14:56 Creating a Strong Franchise Culture 17:44 Keys to Above-Average Performing Stores 20:17 How Franchisors Can Support Franchisees 25:52 The Importance of a Focused Menu 30:57 The Potential of Franchising Today 34:56 What Franchisees Look for in a New Brand 37:44 Avoiding Mistakes and Doing Research

Join Mike Axiotis, a seasoned Red Robin and Wingstop franchisee, as heshares his incredible journey in the restaurant industry. Starting as an 11-year-old busboy in his uncle's diner, Mike quickly climbed the ladder tobecome a prominent figure in franchising. In this episode, he discusses the lessons learned from his early businessventures and the strategies that led to his success. Mike emphasizes theimportance of investing in people, maintaining robust systems, andengaging with the community. He also explores the challenges andvictories that have shaped his career and provides insights into the futureof the restaurant business. With years of experience, he provides deep insights into building andsustaining a thriving franchise. This episode is filled with helpful advice and inspiring stories, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in thedynamics of franchise management and entrepreneurial success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 06:04 Joining a Franchise and Learning the Ropes 12:32 Transitioning to a New Company 18:15 Keys to Success in the Restaurant Industry 23:46 Building a Strong Company Culture 27:53 Managing Multiple Brands and Cultures 30:43 Advice for Prospective Franchisees 38:26 Building a Sellable Franchise 42:48 Franchisor-Franchisee Relationship 47:41 Building Stores Quickly 52:17 Benefits of National Restaurant Association (NRA) 59:21 Considerations for Adding New Brands

In this episode, Dan has an engaging chat with Patrick Galleher, the managing partner of Boxwood Partners. Patrick shares insights from his extensive experience in helping franchisees and franchisors navigate the complexities of buying, selling, and raising capital. The conversation covers the importance of being well-prepared for sale, the process of engaging with potential buyers, and the strategic benefits of having a quality exit plan.   They also discuss the critical aspect of franchisee validation and economics, the role of private equity in franchise deals, and the potential of a "second bite of the apple" for sellers.   Patrick offers practical advice for both buyers and sellers in the franchise industry, highlighting the significance of professional guidance in achieving successful outcomes.   This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the franchise business, providing valuable tips and strategies for maximizing value and ensuring a smooth transaction process.

Scott Redler, the co-founder of Freddy's, joins us on this episode to share his incredible story, from starting out at 15 in the food industry to opening the 500th Freddy's location. This episode dives into the secrets behind Freddy's success, from its unique frozen custard and steakburgers to its focus on customer happiness and team care. Scott discusses the importance of choosing the right franchisees and creating a culture where managers think like owners. He emphasizes the role of passion for the brand, the impact of treating employees well, and how these factors contribute to a franchise's success. Whether you're dreaming of starting your own franchise or you're an existing franchisee looking to expand, Scott's insights provide valuable lessons on growth, culture, and the power of a positive, people-first approach in the restaurant industry.

In this insightful episode, Marc Magerman takes center stage to share his wealth of experience and knowledge in the franchising industry. As a seasoned entrepreneur with a remarkable track record, Marc offers valuable insights into various aspects of franchising, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of this dynamic business world. Marc shares how he started with Five Guys and his initial troubles as a franchisee. With a strong focus on multi-unit franchise ownership, he discusses the critical significance of location in his franchise success and why paying top dollar for space pays you. Compensation for employees and managers is another crucial topic Marc discussed. He stresses the importance of attracting and retaining top talent through competitive pay structures and why staying involved as an owner is always essential. Marc also shares his transition into franchise consulting as a primary focus. He openly shares his desire to help others discover life-changing opportunities within the franchising industry. Marc sees himself as a consultant who provides franchisees with continuous guidance, support, and expertise long after the initial acquisition. Join us for a deep dive into the intricacies of the franchise industry and gain the knowledge you need to jumpstart your franchising journey. Marc's expertise and commitment to assisting others make this episode a must-listen for entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts. Don't miss the chance to learn from a seasoned expert and set yourself on the path to financial independence and growth. 00:00 Introduction 00:46 Background and Entry into Five Guys 03:03 Five Guys as a Franchisor 04:15 Growth and Expansion 06:36 Self-Funding Growth 08:41 Importance of Operations and Following the Playbook 10:16 Lessons Learned and Advice for Success 14:31 Importance of Good Real Estate and Hiring the Right People 18:22 Why Five Guys Continues to Be Successful 20:34 Thinking About the End Game 23:06 The Role of Real Estate Brokers 25:46 Investing in Good Real Estate and Hiring the Right People 29:45 Transition to Franchise Consulting 35:23 Continuing Support and Advice for Franchisees 36:11 Conclusion

Starting a business in a tough spot didn't stop Shawn Walchef from making a name for himself in the competitive world of restaurants.  In this episode, Shawn, owner of Cali BBQ and Cali BBQ Media, talks about turning challenges into opportunities. He discusses the critical role of digital tools in expanding his restaurant's reach and efficiency, providing invaluable insights for those looking to elevate their operations and customer engagement.  Shawn's journey from a local BBQ spot to a digital powerhouse offers a roadmap for franchises seeking to adapt and grow in today's tech-driven market. From mastering social media to optimizing operations with tech tools, Shawn shares practical advice for any business owner looking to improve their game. Tune in to learn how you can apply these insights to your own venture!

In this podcast episode, we meet Rick Fisher, a former software executive who made a big change to become a successful franchise owner. Rick talks about his journey, starting with Five Guys, and how he grew his business to include 37 stores, with both Popeyes and Five Guys in his portfolio. He shares the challenges and strategies of building a successful franchise network, highlighting the importance of conservative business planning and the critical role of cash flow. Rick emphasizes the need to build a solid team and hire skilled operational partners, especially for those not originally from the restaurant industry. He discusses the delicate balance required in adhering to franchisor systems while maintaining entrepreneurial independence. The episode also covers Rick's insights on the role of franchisors in supporting their franchisees, encouraging innovation, and navigating the labor market. He reflects on his approach to real estate, the balance between emerging and mature brands, and the nuances of scaling up in the franchising business. His story is more than just about growing a business; it's about adapting to new challenges, making smart plans, and working hard to succeed in the fast-paced world of franchising. This episode offers straightforward advice and real-life experiences for anyone interested in franchising. Tune in and be inspired.

From his early days scrubbing dishes to directing a billion-dollar brand, Don Fox's extraordinary journey to the top of Firehouse Subs is a testament to where ambition and grit can take you.  With a deep dive into his decision-making process, Don shares how adapting to change, course-correcting, and always putting the brand first were crucial to his and the company's success. He also emphasizes the importance of a community-focused approach, highlighting how the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation has become an integral part of the brand's identity, contributing nearly $90 million to public safety initiatives.   With 50 years of industry experience, Don dives into the challenges and triumphs of building a franchise empire, the importance of investing in people, and the strategic decisions that propelled Firehouse Subs to over 1200 locations.  This episode isn't just a story about making it big—it's about making a difference, one sandwich at a time. Tune in for an inspiring blend of wisdom, wit, and practical advice from a true industry titan.

Greg Flynn, the largest franchisee in the world, shares his insights on franchise success and growth. He discusses his background and early ventures, including his experience with WorldRaps. Flynn then explains how he transitioned to Applebee's and the factors that contributed to his success in running the franchise. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and execution in the restaurant business. Flynn also discusses the state of casual dining and the opportunities for growth in the industry. He shares his experience diversifying into other brands and expanding internationally. Flynn provides advice for franchisees and highlights the significance of the franchisor-franchisee relationship. He concludes by expressing his satisfaction with his journey and the lessons learned along the way. Takeaways Collaboration and execution are key to success in the restaurant business. Diversification and expansion into other brands can provide growth opportunities. Franchisees should focus on running their restaurants well every day. The franchisor-franchisee relationship should be based on trust and mutual support. Chapters 00:00 Greg Flynn's Background and Early Ventures 03:21 Transition to Applebee's and Growth 08:03 Success Factors in Running Applebee's 12:44 Franchise Growth and Collaboration 15:39 The State of Casual Dining 17:14 Diversification into Other Brands 20:01 Property Ownership and Leasing 20:40 Criteria for Selecting New Brands 21:54 Outlook for 2024 and Beyond 23:22 Expansion into Non-Food Franchises 26:17 Starting a Franchise Business Today 27:59 Advice for Franchisees 30:59 Franchisor-Franchisee Relationship 32:16 No Regrets and Learning from Mistakes

Now introducing Smart Franchising with Fransmart, dive deep with Dan Rowe, CEO of Fransmart, into the complex world of franchising and get expert insights, actionable strategies, and real-world stories.