Podcasts about franchisee

Two friends. Two franchise brands. Both blindsided by the same private equity playbook. I break down what happened — the right of first refusal trap, the replacement cost game, the "second bite of the apple" pitch — and what every franchisee needs to know BEFORE the buyers come knocking.   Timestamps: 0:00 — The ROFR Trap: When Your Franchise Exit Isn't Really Yours 0:30 — Two Friends, Two Franchise Brands, Same Private Equity Playbook 1:32 — Why an Early Brand Sale Can Attract New Buyers 1:59 — Sometimes It's the Franchisee, Not the Brand 3:24 — What Private Equity Brings: Money AND Influence 4:30 — The "Second Bite of the Apple" CEO Pitch 4:49 — Opportunity Cost: Every Yes Comes With a No 5:43 — Why Buyers Try to Knock Down the Price Before Closing 6:56 — The Replacement Cost Trap: "What Do You Actually Do Every Day?" 14:44 — The Hidden Franchise Agreement Clause That Blew Up the Deal   Connect with Erik Van Horn:

McDonald's new AI ordering system ArchIQ is already getting tested in five US drive-thrus -- yeah after ditching the old IBM bot that kept screwing up orders they hooked up with Google Cloud to roll out this voice assistant that supposedly nails 90% of transactions with zero human help, pings managers on the fly, and sends orders straight to the kitchen while the real employees get "freed up" for window chats. Franchisees are hyped it cuts the chaos during peak hours but everyone else knows it's just another step toward replacing the kid taking your order with a glitchy chatbot that still can't handle accents or "no pickles" without a meltdown. Watch the podcast episodes on YouTube and all major podcast hosts including Spotify. CLOWNFISH TV is an independent, opinionated news and commentary podcast that covers Entertainment and Tech from a consumer's point of view. We talk about Gaming, Comics, Anime, TV, Movies, Animation and more. Hosted by Kneon and Geeky Sparkles. Get more news, views and reviews on Clownfish TV News - https://more.clownfishtv.com/ On YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/ClownfishTV On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4Tu83D1NcCmh7K1zHIedvg On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/clownfish-tv-audio-edition/id1726838629 MORE CLOWNFISH TV - Official Merch Store: http://ClownfishMinus.com Facebook - https://facebook.com/ClownfishTV X - https://x.com/ClownfishTVcom Clownfish TV subreddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/ClownfishTVOfficial/ Disclaimer: This series is produced by Clownfish Studios and WebReef Media, and is part of ClownfishTV.com. Opinions expressed by our contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of our guests, affiliates, sponsors, or advertisers. ClownfishTV.com is an unofficial news source and has no connection to any company that we may cover. This channel and website and the content made available through this site are for educational, entertainment and informational purposes only. These so-called “fair uses” are permitted even if the use of the work would otherwise be infringing. #News #Podcast #FYP #Shorts #McDonaldsAI #ArchIQ #AIDriveThru #McDonaldsDriveThru #FastFoodAI #GoogleCloudAI #McDonaldsNext #ArchyAI #PopCulture #Tech #Anime #FYP Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of The Ty Brady Way, Ty sits down with Scott Jones, a 30-plus year veteran of the franchise world who has sat on every side of the table. He's been a multi-unit franchisee across multiple brands, a franchisor, and a co-founder of a support services company that now serves about 80,000 franchised locations worldwide. If there's a three-sided fence in franchising, Scott's been on all three sides of it, and that perspective is exactly what makes this conversation worth your time. Scott's entrepreneurial roots go back to his childhood dinner table. His dad was a corporate executive with an oil company who hit an inflection point when the company got acquired and relocation to Chicago was the only way to keep his job. He said no, walked away, and started building businesses. Scott watched all of it up close. He never had a job until he graduated college, was always creating something on his own, and didn't stay in the corporate world long before following the same path his dad had blazed. That early front-row seat to what entrepreneurship actually looks like, the good days and the hard ones, shaped everything that came after. One of the most honest moments in this conversation is when Scott shares his real take on the franchise industry. Out of more than 4,000 unique franchise brands, he believes about half are absolute train wrecks based on unit economics alone. They don't have the support systems, the processes, or a game plan that gives someone a real shot at success. Another 40% are okay to good. That leaves roughly 10% that are truly exceptional. He knows that's not a popular thing to say in his industry. He says it anyway because it's the truth, and because his whole job is built on helping people find that 10%. Ty and Scott get into the biggest mistake people make when looking at franchises: falling in love with the widget. I like this sandwich, so this must be a great business. Scott reframes the whole conversation by asking a different question: how are you going to measure any opportunity? The moment he asks that, nobody talks about sandwiches anymore. They start talking about quality of life, financial goals, what they want their life to look like in one year, three years, ten years. A business is a vehicle. The question is whether it's the right vehicle for where you're actually trying to go, and whether you're the right person to drive it. The early mistake Scott owns is one a lot of founders share: he had to control everything and couldn't let go. It took a good mentor and some hard experience to recognize that his job wasn't to do all the tasks himself. It was to build people, develop systems, and create a culture where exceptional is expected and rewarded. He makes a point worth sitting with: average employees can hide in a large corporate environment. In a small business, they hurt you. The goal is to build a culture where people who think and work at a high level actually thrive, and where people who haven't operated that way before get the chance to discover they can. The story that closes this episode is one Scott spoke about the day before recording. Two engineers, both in corporate jobs, came to him five years ago with a dream of eventually working their way out. The plan was to start a franchise, keep both jobs, and maybe in two years he'd be able to leave. They found a boutique fitness franchise in Alabama. He left his job in five or six months. Eight or nine months later they added a second business. A year ago they added a third. Their net worth has increased about tenfold over five years. She still works her corporate job by choice. They're now looking at buying the buildings their businesses operate in rather than leasing them. That's the outcome Scott is working toward every time he picks up the phone. His closing message is simple and direct: don't settle. Too many people are stuck in a life they don't love because it's the thing they know. There are better ways. The only thing standing between where you are and where you want to be is the willingness to step outside what's familiar and find out what's actually possible.  

This week on The Food Professor Podcast, co-hosts Michael LeBlanc and Dr. Sylvain Charlebois welcome two special guests for a wide-ranging, no-holds-barred interview: Axel Schwan, President of Tim Hortons Canada & U.S., and Duncan Fulton, Chief Corporate Officer of Restaurant Brands International (RBI). With Dunkin' Donuts announcing its return to Canada and Canadians passionately debating the future of their most iconic coffee brand, Axel and Duncan showed up ready to answer the tough questions. In a candid 40-minute conversation, Schwan and Fulton open up about Tim Hortons' "Back to Basics" strategy — the largest consumer research project in the company's history — and the quality overhaul that followed: freshly cracked eggs replacing frozen patties in breakfast sandwiches, 40% more apple in the apple fritter, more Venetian cream in the Boston cream, and the removal of artificial colours, flavours and preservatives across the menu. They share how Tim Hortons serves four million guests a day across 4,000 restaurants owned by 1,500 Canadian franchisees, why traffic is the one metric Axel watches daily, and how the brand is winning younger consumers with its Quenchers platform — including the imminent launch of Popping Quenchers — plus celebrity partnerships with Justin Bieber and Ryan Reynolds. The duo also tackles the controversy head-on: Is the wave of announcements — 400 restaurant renovations, 80 new builds, a national hiring campaign — a reaction to Dunkin's arrival? Fulton sets the record straight on the temporary foreign worker debate, noting roughly 4,000 of 110,000 restaurant team members are part of the program, and explains how AI is being deployed to improve the team member experience, from labour scheduling to order accuracy. A rapid-fire round covers everything from the biggest public misconception about Tim Hortons to the products Canadians want back, while Michael shares his own fun factoid: he helped invent Roll Up the Rim during his Dixie Cup days. But first, we start with the food and agriculture news of the week. Sobeys gets served as the Competition Bureau flexes its new Competition Act powers to investigate property controls in Canadian grocery. We break down Ottawa's newly published AI strategy and what it means for agriculture and food, where Canada's persistent data deficit threatens to undermine even the best intentions. Then, the screwworm fly resurfaces in Texas, prompting the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to take targeted action — and sending cattle futures and already-high beef prices climbing. Sylvain also reports from Delaware, where he keynoted a healthcare conference on food as medicine and discovered a surprising threat to American farmland: hundreds of AI data centres being built on fertile soil. About UsDr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Visiting Professor in Food Policy and Distribution at McGill University and a Professor in Food Distribution and Policy in the Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University.Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety. He is one of the world's most cited scholars in food supply chain management, food value chains and traceability with over 775 published peer-reviewed journal articles. Dr. Charlebois is also an editor for the prestigious Trends in Food Science Technology journal. He co-hosts The Food Professor podcast, discussing issues in the food, foodservice, grocery and restaurant industries and which is the most listened Canadian management podcast in Canada. Every year since 2012, he has published the now highly anticipated Canadian Food Price Report, which provides an overview of food price trends for the coming year. Furthermore, his research has been featured in several newspapers and media groups, nationally as well as internationally. He has testified on several occasions before parliamentary committees on food policy-related issues as an expert witness. He has been asked to act as an advisor on food and agricultural policies in many Canadian provinces and other countries.With extensive experience collaborating with businesses, governments, and NGOs, Dr. Charlebois combines academic rigor with practical expertise, making him one of the most influential voices in the global agri-food landscape. His work continues to advance the understanding of food systems, fostering innovation and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry. In 2025, he received the prestigious Charles III medal recognizing his tremendous work in informing Canadians about food issues. Michael LeBlanc is a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions hosted senior retail executive on-stage in 1:1 interviews worldwide. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including The Remarkable Retail Podcast, The Voice of Retail, The Food Professor, The FEED powered by Loblaw and the Global eCommerce Leaders podcast. He has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as a global Top Retail Voice for 2025 and 2025, and continues to be a ReThink Retail Top Retail Expert for the fifth year in a row.

Most franchise leaders think franchisees resist the system itself, but the real issue is often a lack of buy-in from the beginning. In today's episode, we sit down with Joel Worthington, former president of Mr. Electric, to unpack why franchisee buy-in is one of the hardest things for leaders to create and why communication is often the missing piece. After spending 16 years as a pastor before stepping into franchising, Joel shares how leadership, trust, communication, and curiosity shape the way franchisees respond to change This conversation goes far beyond communication tactics. Joel breaks down why leaders often move too quickly into problem-solving, how curiosity creates better conversations, and why compliance alone is never enough and why franchisees are far more likely to buy into systems they feel connected to rather than systems they feel forced into. He also shares the GUIDE leadership framework he used while leading more than 200 franchise locations and explains how better communication helped transform culture, trust, and performance across the brand.We also dive into the leadership mistakes that quietly create resistance, why compliance alone is never enough, and how strong franchise systems still fail when leaders don't know how to create emotional buy-in from their people.So, if you've ever wondered why franchisees push back, resist change, or fail to fully engage with the system, this episode will completely change the way you think about leadership in franchising.Connect with Joel:Website: https://www.joelworthington.com/Episode Highlights:Joel's transition from pastor to franchise leaderWhy franchising and pastoring are more similar than people thinkThe communication mistakes most leaders makeWhy franchisees resist systems and processesHow to create buy-in instead of complianceJoel's GUIDE leadership frameworkWhy leaders solve problems too quicklyThe role trust plays in franchise growthHow curiosity changes difficult conversationsWhy leadership development drives long-term growthConnect with TracyPersonal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-panase/JBF LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/jbfsaleJBF Franchise System - https://jbfsalefranchise.com/Email: podcast@jbfsale.comConnect with ShannonPersonal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonwilburn/       JBF LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/jbfsaleWebsite - https://shineexecutivecoaching.com/Email - shannon@shineexecutivecoaching.com

On this episode of The Ty Brady Way, Ty sits down with Matt Stevens, known simply as The Franchise Guy. Matt has spent 25 years as a franchise consultant flying the flag with FranChoice, an international group of franchise professionals who help people find the right business opportunity without the guesswork. Before that, he spent years inside the franchise world itself, starting as a young guy running a painting business in New Hampshire in 1988, working his way up to franchise development roles, and flying around the country for years before realizing he was missing his daughter's childhood in the process. That wake-up call led him to where he is now, and he hasn't looked back. The story that sets the tone for this whole conversation starts in the cold. Matt was running his painting franchise in southwestern New Hampshire, and leads were thin. No direct mail, no digital marketing, just door knocking and yard signs. So he made a decision: every weekend, he would cold call houses until he had 10 estimates scheduled. He did that for months straight, in February, March, and April, walking streets in a short sleeve shirt in mid-fifty-degree weather because he was moving fast enough to stay warm. He never left a Sunday night without those 10 appointments. That year he won rookie of the year for the Northern New England division. He credits two things: fear and pride. He had given up a baseball summer to run a business, and he was not going home empty-handed. Ty and Matt get into what actually separates the top performers in franchising from everyone else. Matt calls it exercising your ABs: Attitude, Ambition, Behavior, and Skill. But the fifth element, the one most people miss, is Engagement. He learned that the hard way in 1988 when he spent hundreds of hours solving problems on his own that a single phone call to a neighboring franchisee could have answered in ten minutes. The whole point of a franchise system is that you are not doing it alone. You paid for the knowledge of everyone who came before you. Not using it is like buying a map and refusing to open it. One of the most practical parts of this conversation is Matt's take on the single biggest mistake people make when looking at franchises: turning assumptions into conclusions. Someone sees a franchise advertised for $70,000 and assumes that's the total investment. Someone else assumes they need millions to get started. Matt placed a candidate who got into a franchise for $15,000 cash, borrowed another $50,000, built it for seven years, and retired. The numbers are almost never what people assume, and a few honest conversations can change everything. Matt also walks through how he structures his days when things are clicking: one consultation, one introduction, and consistent marketing activity every single day. He sets aside time rather than chasing a number, because he knows that some days one hour of marketing produces five appointments and some days it produces zero. The activity is what matters. He calls it butt in seat, and it's the same principle whether you're trying to lose weight, renovate a room, or build a business. The story that closes this episode is one Matt has carried with him for fifteen years. A friend got downsized from a $200,000 executive role and came to Matt looking for a business. He found the right opportunity, but hesitated too long and someone else grabbed it. He started over with a second option. Then the person who bought the first opportunity had a serious health issue and had to sell, and Matt called his friend and said, this is yours if you want it, pennies on the dollar. His friend bought both businesses. He has been franchisee of the year in both national systems and is still going strong fifteen years later. That's the kind of outcome that keeps Matt doing what he does. His legacy is simple: do the right thing, and trust that one person can do what another person has already done. You just have to know what that person actually did to get there.  

Todd Krause's BIO: Todd A. Krause is the owner of The Cleaning Authority – Fishers, where he grew the business from $1.8 million in revenue to more than $4 million while building a diverse team and a thriving workplace culture that prioritizes people, performance, and long-term success. His leadership approach has earned multiple industry recognitions, including Franchisee of the Year honors. Todd holds an MBA and is a Certified Public Accountant, with more than three decades of experience leading and growing businesses across multiple industries. Over the course of his career, he founded and scaled a fund administration firm managing more than $2 billion in assets under administration, helped launch and grow a major bank business unit that reached $14 billion in assets, and led organizations ranging from startups to complex global enterprises. Today, Todd is the founder of Silversun Consulting, a firm dedicated to solving the growth challenges that keep home-service businesses stuck. Through his consulting, speaking, and writing, he shows business owners how to build companies that grow sustainably by combining strong leadership, effective systems, and positive, culturally competent workplace environments. Todd's work centers on a simple belief: when businesses create caring, positive workplaces where employees thrive, they retain great people, deliver exceptional service, and build companies that grow faster, become more profitable, and operate with less owner stress. He is an author, TEDx speaker, keynote presenter, and passionate advocate for leadership that uplifts employees, strengthens businesses, and improves lives in the communities they serve. In this episode, Virginia and Todd talked about Todd's background in finance Todd's entry into business ownership Business growth vs. business scale Secrets to developing your human capital Leadership advice for solopreneurs Takeaways:  Your goal as a business owner is to build an asset. Bonus the people who help grow your business. Toxic culture = employee turnover and loss of clients. Being a solopreneur doesn't mean that you are working solo and doing everything. Get out of your comfort zone. That's where growth happens. Connect with Todd Krause on his social media accounts to learn more about his work and insights into networking effectively: LinkedIn URL https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddakrause/ Facebook URL https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554499613120 Instagram URL https://www.instagram.com/toddakrause/   Connect with Virginia: https://www.bbrpodcast.com/ Download my Business by Referral Blueprint and create consistent revenue! https://mktg.masterconnectors.com/business-by-referral-blueprint 

Franchise evolution is one of the most important factors in determining whether a brand can remain competitive over the long term. Consumer expectations shift, markets change, operational costs fluctuate, and new technologies continue reshaping how businesses connect with customers. Brands that fail to adapt risk becoming outdated, while those willing to evolve strategically are often the ones that continue growing for decades. That balance between consistency and adaptability is something Dan Doulen understands well. As Senior Director of Franchise Business Development at Golden Corral, Dan works with one of the most established restaurant franchise systems in the country. With more than 50 years of brand history and hundreds of locations nationwide, Golden Corral has experienced multiple shifts in consumer behavior, restaurant trends, and economic cycles. Remaining relevant through those changes requires more than maintaining a recognizable brand. It requires ongoing franchise evolution. One of the key themes behind franchise evolution is understanding that customer expectations are never static. What consumers wanted from restaurants ten or twenty years ago is different from what they expect today. Value still matters, but convenience, flexibility, quality, and experience have become equally important factors influencing purchasing decisions. For legacy brands, adapting to those changes can be challenging. Long-established systems often have deeply ingrained operational models and infrastructure. While those systems provide stability, they can also create resistance to change. Successful franchise evolution requires brands to evaluate what should remain consistent while identifying areas that need modernization. Golden Corral's approach reflects this balance. Rather than abandoning the core identity that made the brand successful, the company has focused on evolving operationally and strategically. This includes exploring smaller and more flexible footprints, conversion opportunities, and nontraditional real estate locations that better align with current market conditions. Real estate strategy has become an increasingly important part of franchise growth. Traditional standalone locations with large footprints may not always provide the best path for expansion in every market. By considering alternative spaces and adaptive reuse opportunities, brands can reduce development costs while increasing flexibility. This type of strategic evolution allows franchise systems to expand more efficiently while responding to changing commercial real estate conditions. Franchise evolution also depends heavily on franchisee relationships. Dan repeatedly emphasizes the importance of maintaining a franchisee-centric culture. In mature franchise systems, collaboration between corporate leadership and franchisees becomes essential for making informed decisions and maintaining operational alignment. Franchisees provide direct insight into customer behavior, operational challenges, and local market trends that can help shape broader brand strategies. Strong franchise systems recognize that innovation does not only come from the corporate office. Some of the most impactful ideas emerge from operators working directly within the business every day. Another major factor influencing franchise evolution is operational flexibility. Consumer habits continue changing, especially in the restaurant industry. Some customers prioritize convenience and speed, while others value experience and variety. Brands that can adapt their systems to accommodate multiple customer preferences are better positioned to remain relevant across changing demographics. Golden Corral's ability to appeal to a wide range of customers reflects this flexibility. From families and value-focused diners to health-conscious consumers looking for variety, the buffet model continues evolving alongside broader dining trends. Maintaining relevance requires not only operational consistency but also a willingness to adapt menus, marketing, and guest experiences over time. Ford Saeks often emphasizes that visibility and relevance go hand in hand. Businesses cannot rely solely on past success to maintain momentum. As consumer behaviors shift toward digital discovery, AI search, and online reviews, brands must continuously evaluate how they are being perceived and discovered in the marketplace. This is especially important for franchise brands with multiple locations. A strong national presence matters, but local visibility and customer engagement remain critical for individual unit performance. Franchise systems that effectively combine national branding with localized marketing support are often better positioned for sustainable growth. Franchise evolution also requires leadership willing to think proactively rather than reactively. Brands that wait too long to adjust operational models, technology, or development strategies often face greater challenges later. Continuous evaluation and strategic flexibility allow organizations to respond more effectively to market changes before they become major obstacles. As markets continue evolving, franchise systems that remain adaptable while protecting their core identity will have a significant advantage. Growth today is not simply about adding more units. It is about building systems that can respond to change, support franchisees effectively, and maintain relevance with customers over time. Dan Doulen's work highlights an important reality for franchise leaders. Longevity is not created by standing still. It is built through continuous franchise evolution supported by strong systems, strategic adaptability, and a commitment to staying relevant in changing markets. Watch the ful episode on YouTube. Join Fordify LIVE every Wednesday at 11 a.m. Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. About Dan Doulen Dan Doulen is the Senior Director of Franchise Business Development at Golden Corral, where he helps lead franchise growth initiatives for one of the most recognized restaurant brands in the country. With more than 20 years of experience in franchise development and over four decades in the restaurant industry, Dan brings extensive expertise in franchise operations, real estate strategy, multi-unit growth, and franchisee support. Throughout his career, he has worked with emerging and established restaurant brands, helping them evolve, adapt to changing markets, and build sustainable systems designed for long-term success. About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator who has generated more than a billion dollars in sales worldwide by helping companies attract loyal customers, expand brand visibility, and drive innovation. As President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., Ford has founded more than ten companies, authored five books, earned three U.S. patents, and advised organizations ranging from startups to Fortune 500 brands. His expertise spans business growth strategy, customer acquisition, leadership, franchising, and AI-driven content systems that help businesses improve performance in rapidly changing markets. Learn more at Profit Rich Results and watch Fordify LIVE at Fordify.tv

What is your process for onboarding franchisees? Do you have thoughts or ideas on how to improve? Our guest today is Ryan Parsons, who shares with us how onboarding is critical to franchise success sharing insights with roughly 1,000 franchises. TODAY'S WIN-WIN: No unloving pass offs.LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:Schedule your free franchise consultation with Big Sky Franchise Team: https://bigskyfranchiseteam.com/. You can visit our guest's website: https://evivebrands.com/Attend our Franchise Sales Training Workshop:  https://bigskyfranchiseteam.com/franchisesalestraining/Connect with our guests on social: rparsions@evivebrands.comABOUT OUR GUEST:Ryan Parsons is the Chief Executive Officer of Evive Brands, a Scottsdale-based franchise platform uniting Executive Home Care, Assisted Living Locators, Grasons, The Brothers That Just Do Gutters, and Maid Brigade. He leads a nationwide network of approximately 1,000 franchise locations, steering growth with disciplined execution and an unwavering focus on brand stewardship and community impact. Parsons champions a world-class onboarding experience, hands-on training, and continuous follow-up so owners can master systems and deliver consistent, high-quality service. He partners closely with brand presidents and franchisees, fostering cross-brand collaboration, operational rigor, and measurable results. A believer that “nothing in franchising is automatic,” he sets clear standards, invests in enablement, and holds teams accountable to data-driven goals. Under his leadership, Evive is expanding its footprint, elevating service quality, and amplifying each brand's purpose in local communities across the country. Parsons shares insights on leadership, execution, and franchise performance with industry media and conferences.This episode is powered by Big Sky Franchise Team. Big Sky Franchise Team is consistently recognized as one of the best franchise consulting firms in the world, helping entrepreneurs franchise their businesses through a proven 3-Step franchise process rooted in ethical principles, hands-on guidance, and customized deliverables.  If you are ready to talk about franchising your business you can schedule your free, no-obligation, franchise consultation online at: https://bigskyfranchiseteam.com/. The information provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any business decisions. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Big Sky Franchise Team, or our affiliates. Additionally, this podcast may feature sponsors or advertisers, but any mention of products or services does not constitute an endorsement. Please do your own research before making any purchasing or business decisions.

Richard Gearhart and Elizabeth Gearhart, co-hosts of the Passage to Profit Show interview AI and 3D tech leader James Thornton from Tafi and Daz 3D, franchise expert Cliff Nonnenmacher from Franocity and cybersecurity expert Eric Kanagy from Simplesense. James Thornton, Co-Founder and CEO of Tafi and Chairman & CEO of DAZ 3D, reveals what it really takes to build billion-dollar companies, why most entrepreneurs misunderstand scaling, and why data—not AI models—is becoming the true power behind the future of artificial intelligence. In this inspiring and deeply personal episode, James shares lessons from rebuilding struggling companies, surviving a life-changing stroke in his twenties, creating industry-leading 3D AI technology, and helping shape the next generation of AI-driven business tools. From prompt engineering and AI workflows to resilience, leadership, innovation, and the future of digital humans, this episode delivers powerful insights every entrepreneur, creator, and business leader needs to hear. Read more at: https://www.daz3d.com/ Franchise expert Cliff Nonnenmacher, founder of Franocity reveals what most people completely misunderstand about franchising, wealth creation, and escaping corporate America. In this eye-opening episode, Cliff explains how the right franchise can dramatically reduce business failure risk, why “freedom within the framework” creates successful entrepreneurs, and the critical financial and personality traits needed before investing. He also breaks down the industries he believes are most resistant to AI disruption — including home services, trades, senior care, biohacking, and youth enrichment — while sharing the biggest mistakes aspiring franchise owners make when chasing passive income and financial freedom. Read more at: https://franocity.com/ Cybersecurity expert and SimpleSense founder Eric Kanagy reveals how AI is rapidly changing the future of cyber warfare, infrastructure security, and online safety. From hacked water utilities and nation-state attacks to AI-generated scams and fake voices, this eye-opening conversation explores the growing threats businesses and everyday people face as artificial intelligence becomes more powerful. Eric explains why critical infrastructure is vulnerable, how AI is helping both attackers and defenders, and what entrepreneurs can do now to stay protected in an increasingly dangerous digital world. Read more at: https://simplesense.io/ Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, startup founder, inventor, or small business owner, the Passage to Profit Show is a leading podcast for insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, intellectual property and business strategy. Hosted by Richard Gearhart and Elizabeth Gearhart, the show features industry leaders, investors, and founders who share real-world lessons on scaling companies, protecting ideas, building generational wealth, and navigating today's evolving business landscape. Visit https://passagetoprofitshow.com/ for the latest episodes, expert interviews, and resources designed to help you grow, protect, and profit from your ideas. Chapters (00:00:00) - Passive Intelligence: The Future of Business(00:00:25) - Passage to Profit(00:02:13) - We Got Our Patent Granted(00:02:51) - If You Filed Your Return Late, You Can Get a Ref(00:03:48) - A Few Words on Ted Turner(00:04:38) - Jimi Hendrix Legacy Lawsuit(00:05:55) - Mother's Day Plans in New York(00:07:41) - What Was the One Decision That Changed the Direction of Your Business?(00:08:41) - How to Build a Wealth of Franchising(00:10:23) - What Changed the Direction of Your Business?(00:12:18) - The One Decision That Changed the Direction of Your Business(00:15:02) - How Hard Do You Have to Work to Create a Billion-D(00:15:59) - Clifford Robbins on Working Nonstop(00:19:58) - How Having a Stroke Changed My Perspective on Life(00:22:43) - The true power of AI is data(00:25:34) - How to Describe Yourself to the AI(00:28:32) - Car Shield(00:29:43) - Better Health Insurance for You(00:30:43) - How Daz For 3-D Artists Is Taking on AI(00:40:24) - Best Uses of AI in Business Owners Roundtable(00:42:38) - ChatGPT: The Future of Image Generation(00:44:19) - Business Owners Roundtable: Real AI Use Cases(00:46:02) - Debtor Assistance Hotline(00:48:27) - The Secret to Intellectual Property(00:52:00) - Buy a Franchise(00:54:59) - How to Get Out of Corporate America(00:56:36) - Do You Need a Franchise to Create Wealth?(01:00:59) - Should You Buy a Franchise or Start a Business?(01:03:19) - What to Know Before Becoming a Franchisee(01:04:10) - Immortal Franchising: The furthest distance from AI(01:06:20) - Is Cybersecurity More Secure Than Ever?(01:12:25) - James Poneman: Could AI Prevent Cybersecurity Attacks?(01:19:02) - Car Shield(01:20:06) - Memory of the Phone(01:21:22) - Secret Weapons of the Entrepreneurial Mind(01:24:05) - How to Be More Helpful to Others(01:25:12) - Richard Gearhart and Elizabeth Gearhart: Rest Is Not Optional(01:26:50) - Passive to Profit

Lloyd Richardson took over Jim's Bookkeeping in 2018 with around 20 franchisees. Seven years later, the division has more than 67 franchisees, 9 regional franchisors, and just became the first division in the network to earn the 50-franchisee plaque on the Jim's training room wall.Lloyd is a fellow CPA who grew up inside his father's accounting firm, scaled it to 26 staff, sold it in 1999, and retired. He came back to consulting, met Jim Penman, and ended up running one of the strongest divisions in the Jim's Group. In this episode of the Jim's podcast, Lloyd sits down with Joel to break down how the division actually works, what makes a successful Jim's Bookkeeping franchisee, and why his vision for the group is to build the happiest bookkeepers in Australia.Lloyd also covers the Payday Super legislation coming in on 1 July, why every Jim's franchisor needs to know about it, and the new MYOB Solo deal that gives any new business owner a year of accounting software plus 2 months of a Jim's bookkeeper for $11. He also explains the new regional franchisor pathway designed specifically for existing accounting firm owners who want to slow down without selling.timestamps 00:00 Introduction00:19 50 Franchisees and Growing01:20 Lloyd's Accounting Background02:56 Taking Over Jim's Bookkeeping05:54 Franchise Myths Accountants Get Wrong07:33 How the Franchise Works09:08 Weekly Support and Ask the Experts11:46 Training and Systems16:12 Traits of Successful Franchisees18:45 Regional Franchisor Opportunities21:14 Getting Your First Clients25:30 Starting Part-Time26:31 Services Offered27:31 Payday Super Explained30:29 Vehicle Log Books and Tax31:47 Cash Flow Advisory33:48 AI and the Future of Bookkeeping41:13 Building Wealth Through Business49:10 Franchise Costs51:56 The Happiest Bookkeeper53:00 Contact and Final Thoughts

75–100 doors is where most PM companies hit the wall. And the reason is almost always the same: the owner won't hire fast enough.In this episode, I'm joined by Nate Tew, CEO and co-founder of Keyrenter Property Management. They've got 94 locations and about 14k (yes, thats fourteen THOUSAND) doors under management. We dig into PM franchise models, Nate's Model 300 framework, and why he's deliberately keeping growth slower than it could be (Keyrenter would be 2-3x its current size if they accepted every applicant).We discuss:(00:01:40) - Nate's background and career(00:07:07) - Taking a Franchisor approach(00:16:29) - Sponsor - DoorLoop(00:18:05) - Unit Economics(00:21:41) - Painful Decisions and turning away potential Franchisees(00:25:31) - Early signs of the success of a Franchisee(00:28:30) - Intellectual Property(00:39:18) - Sponsor - Enterprise Bank & Trust(00:40:42) - Breaking out of the discomfort in hiring and training(00:49:05) - What the most profitable franchisees are doing differently(00:52:05) - Leadership philosophies and plateau points(00:58:07) - Contrarian Thinking in PMNate breaks down the unit economics behind 23% same-store revenue growth, what separates his most profitable franchisees, and the early signs that tell him a new franchise owner is going to win.We also get into a contrarian take I mostly agree with: most "bad owner" stories aren't really about the owners.If you're scaling a PM company (or thinking about the franchise path) this one's well worth your time.__Resources for Property Managers & Real Estate EntrepreneursCrane – Private PM Owner Community → Join a private network of property management owners and operators: https://joincrane.co/Free Weekly Newsletter → Property management insights, strategies, and industry updates direct to your inbox: https://peter.beehiiv.com/subscribeRL Property Management → Learn more about Peter's company and services in Columbus, Ohio: https://rlpmg.com/__Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. I may have consulting agreements with, or financial interests in, companies mentioned in this podcast (more info here: https://www.peterlohmann.com/financial-interest-disclosure ). Additionally, some of the links included may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you purchase through these links. Always perform your own due diligence before making any financial or business decisions.

One Jim's Hazmat franchisee did $750,000 in revenue in his second year while taking three months off. In this episode Joel sits down with Gary, the Jim's Hazmat franchisor, and Jason, the national franchise manager, to break down what is one of the fastest growing and least understood divisions inside Jim's Group. Gary started six years ago working from a corner of his kitchen and now leads 31 franchisees across the country. Jason walks through the three day induction, the 13 services Hazmat franchisees deliver, and what kind of person succeeds in the role. You will hear the real numbers behind the division, including a $42,000 fire job finished in three days and a $90,000 asbestos job done by a franchisee less than a year into the business. Gary explains why most franchisees pay off their buy-in within six months, how the team coordinates work across franchisees instead of competing, and why he set a goal of 1,000 franchisees. If you want to know what franchise opportunity Joel calls the best kept secret in Jim's Group, start here.0:00 The $42k and $90k jobs that paid off franchises0:46 Gary's journey from FIFO worker to Jim's Hazmat4:19 What Jim's Hazmat actually does6:17 The 3-day induction and 13-service training10:16 Six years building from a kitchen corner13:04 Hoarder cleans and jobs nobody else wants17:47 Women in Hazmat and partner involvement19:56 Buy-in costs and 6-month payback24:20 Why there's no income ceiling in this division28:00 The $42k fire job and $90k asbestos job30:31 Hard work, hot conditions, real reward34:05 Goal of 1,000 franchisees37:18 Training and support for new franchisees40:41 Full fees breakdown41:42 From Audi manager to $750k revenue in year two45:04 Why this is Jim's Group's best kept secret49:58 Expanding into New Zealand

The Founderz Lounge Episode #88 with Don Varady and Steve Bon.In this episode, Don and Steve sit down with Matt Hall to break down what actually makes a successful franchisee. Matt shares his story from the factory floor to becoming one of the top operators in the Clean Eatz system, and why consistency, process, and community involvement matter more than hype.They get into what most franchisees misunderstand, why some owners struggle to follow the model, how to build a strong team culture, and what separates elite operators from the ones who keep getting in their own way. Matt also opens up about burnout, leadership, health, and how personal discipline affects business performance.If you want to build a better business, lead people well, and understand what it really takes to win as a franchisee, this episode is for you.Timestamps:[00:00] Trailer and Intro[02:06] Matt Hall's background[04:58] Why Clean Eatz was different[06:40] Fears of buying a franchise[09:10] Franchise misconceptions[12:35] Helping improve the system[15:22] Why following the model works[16:31] What separates top franchisees[19:55] Matt's non-negotiables[23:05] Corrective action and process[26:30] Building culture and retaining great people[30:42] What Matt looks for when hiring[32:16] Why franchisees resist the model[34:34] The danger of freelancing in a franchise[38:05] Multi-unit misconceptions[40:50] Burnout, motivation, and staying engaged[47:50] How to rebuild momentum when struggling[51:08] Fitness, discipline, and longevityKey Takeaways:  • “We don't tell the customer no.” ~Matt Hall• Fear is one of the biggest reasons franchisees struggle, especially when it comes to marketing, hard conversations, and getting outside their comfort zone. ~Matt Hall• “There's never a time that we are too busy to ever follow the process.” ~Matt Hall• “I build the team and the team builds the company.” ~Matt Hall• Strong franchise systems get better when franchisees bring high standards, solve problems, and help improve the brand instead of just consuming what is already there. ~Don Varady• Building people matters because joining a franchise does not remove responsibility. Owners still have to show up, represent the brand, and do the grassroots work. ~Steve BonConnect with Matt Hall:Clean Eatz Louisville: Website: https://locations.cleaneatz.com/ky/louisville/meal-prep-103.htmlMatt Hall on Social Media:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-hall-69220443/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthall502/Connect with Don and Steve…Don Varady:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/don.varady/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donvarady/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-varady-450896145 Steve Bon:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenbon Instagram: https://instagram.com/stevebon8 Tune in to every episode on your favorite platform: Website: https://www.thefounderzlounge.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFounderzLounge Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Nurr4XjBE747qJ9Zjth0G Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-founderz-lounge/id1461825349 The Founderz Lounge is Powered By:Clean Eatz:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CleanEatzLife/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cleaneatzlife/ Website: https://cleaneatz.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJRGrE-Xv4IMW_DbxSOTGGA Bon's Eye Marketing:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bonseyemarketing Instagram: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bon's-eye-marketing/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bon's-eye-marketing/ Website: https://bonseyeonline.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bonseyemarketing9477  

Back in March, F&B Capital, a new capital markets firm focused on advising and supporting concepts across the franchise ecosystem, emerged into the space. This isn't your average vehicle. Zack Fishman and Jimmy Frischling, who you may best know, respectively, from Fishman PR and Branded Hospitality, joined forces to fill a need they identified. We'll get into this venture and how it plans to tap into longstanding entrepreneurial and investment experience, along with a long-term approach to building enduring businesses in the franchising sector.

Korzo shares the story of a Pizza Hut franchisee who is having great success bringing back the old decor and nostalgia from decades ago and bringing in big business.

In this Build Your Success podcast episode, host Brianinterviews Adam Povitz, CEO of Anago Cleaning Systems, a three-tier commercial cleaning franchise operating across the U.S. and Canada with 1,800 franchisees and 50 master franchise regions. Adam explains how Anago supports post-construction final cleans that often lead to ongoing cleaning relationships, and how the model separates responsibilities so master franchisees handle sales, marketing, and administration while unit franchisees focus on delivering cleaning services.He defines leadership as stepping back from micromanagement, hiring the right people, setting vision and goals, and “getting out of the way.” Adam describes leading franchisees through influence, testing and vetting initiatives in select markets before rollout, managing adoption challenges with enablement support, and maintaining professional “frenemy” relationships with competitors to address industry-wide issues.Guest Social: Adam Povlitz | LinkedInGuest Website:_Commercial Cleaning | Anago Commercial CleaningHost Email:brianb@buildcs.net Host LinkedIn: Brian Brogen, PMP

Damian Bush felt fit, coached footy, hit the gym, and weighed 80kg. Then a routine check found his resting heart rate sitting at 137 and he was in emergency heart surgery the next day.Damian has been a Jim's Mowing franchisee in Tasmania for nearly 10 years and supports the Tassie network alongside running his own crew. He joins Joel on the Jim's Mowing podcast to share the health scare that nearly took him out, and the business systems that kept his income running while he recovered.The conversation covers why franchisees service their machines but neglect themselves, the income protection gap most operators have no idea about, and how Damian turned every Tasmanian customer into a fortnightly retainer across all four seasons. Damian also breaks down the personal brand standards he runs his business by, how one local franchisee got 18 five-star Google reviews in two weeks, and why sponsoring local sport teams and raffle prizes still outperforms digital ads for long-term franchisees.If you run a service business or you are looking at a Jim's franchise, this one is worth your time.0:00 Diversifying services and winter upsells0:45 Meet Damian Bush, Tasmania franchisee1:10 The health scare that changed everything3:14 A resting heart rate of 137 with no symptoms6:23 Why franchisees skip their own check-ups9:25 Income protection and personal cover12:11 Diversifying into a full-garden retainer model14:24 How to get off Jim's leads and build referrals19:07 Personal brand standards every franchisee needs22:30 Setting your own non-negotiable standards24:34 Upselling, networking, and Google My Business33:00 Why one franchisee gets requested by name38:16 The 30 doors a day local marketing tactic40:21 Sponsoring sport teams and raffle prizes46:31 Building referrals through community trust

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Franchise systems play a critical role in shaping how brands scale, maintain consistency, and deliver experiences that keep customers coming back. In competitive industries like coffee and quick service restaurants, success is rarely driven by product alone. It is the combination of systems, training, and execution that determines whether a brand can grow sustainably across multiple locations. Ryan Stansbury has spent more than two decades working within franchise systems, helping brands expand while maintaining operational discipline and brand integrity. As Executive Vice President of Franchise Development at PJ's Coffee, he has been instrumental in guiding the brand's growth from a regional presence to a rapidly expanding franchise approaching 200 locations. One of the most important lessons in franchise systems is that growth cannot come at the expense of consistency. As more units are added, maintaining the same level of quality and customer experience becomes more challenging. Without strong systems in place, even the best concepts can struggle to deliver a reliable experience across different markets. At PJ's Coffee, the focus has been on building systems that support both franchisees and customers. This includes everything from product quality and sourcing to training programs and operational processes. While many brands attempt to grow by adding more options or expanding their offerings, this approach can often create unnecessary complexity. Simplification, when done correctly, can be a powerful growth strategy. By evaluating performance data and identifying which products truly drive demand, franchise systems can remove underperforming items and focus on what works best. This not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances the customer experience by making ordering simpler and more intuitive. The Big Easy Initiative at PJ's Coffee reflects this approach. By leaning into its New Orleans roots and highlighting signature flavors that resonate with customers, the brand has strengthened its identity while making the menu more focused and effective. This balance between brand storytelling and operational efficiency is what allows franchise systems to scale without losing their uniqueness. Guest experience is the direct result of how well systems are executed. From the moment a customer walks into a location, every interaction is influenced by the systems behind the scenes. Training, staffing, communication, and leadership all play a role in shaping that experience. Franchisees who are engaged, present, and aligned with the brand's standards are more likely to deliver the type of experience that builds loyalty and repeat business. Ford Saeks often emphasizes that systems only work when they are consistently followed and reinforced. In franchising, this becomes even more important because each location represents the brand in a different market. Consistency builds trust, and trust drives growth. Another key factor in strong franchise systems is feedback. Understanding what is happening at the store level allows brands to identify opportunities for improvement and address issues before they impact the customer experience. Whether through customer feedback tools, field support, or performance tracking, successful systems prioritize visibility and accountability. Franchise systems also depend on alignment between franchisors and franchisees. When both sides are working toward the same goals, growth becomes more efficient and sustainable. Misalignment, on the other hand, can create friction that slows progress and affects performance. For entrepreneurs considering franchising, these systems provide a framework that reduces uncertainty. Instead of building everything from scratch, franchisees can leverage proven processes, established branding, and ongoing support. However, success still requires commitment, involvement, and a willingness to follow the system. Franchise systems are not static. They evolve as markets change, customer expectations shift, and new opportunities emerge. Brands that continuously refine their approach while staying true to their core identity are better positioned to maintain relevance and scale effectively. Ryan Stansbury's work highlights a key principle for business leaders. Growth is not just about expansion. It is about building systems that support people, simplify operations, and create better experiences at every level of the organization. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Join Fordify LIVE every Wednesday at 11 a.m. Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. About Ryan Stansbury Ryan Stansbury is the Executive Vice President of Franchise Development at PJ's Coffee, where he leads domestic and international growth initiatives for the brand. With more than 20 years of experience in franchising, Ryan has played a key role in expanding franchise systems, supporting franchisees, and driving strategic growth across multiple markets. He is also a Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) and has extensive experience as both a franchisor and multi-unit franchisee. About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator who has generated more than a billion dollars in sales worldwide by helping companies attract loyal customers, expand brand visibility, and drive innovation. As President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., Ford has founded more than ten companies, authored five books, earned three U.S. patents, and advised organizations ranging from startups to Fortune 500 brands. His expertise spans business growth strategy, customer acquisition, leadership, and AI-driven content systems that help companies improve results in a rapidly changing marketplace. Learn more at ProfitRichResults.com and watch Fordify LIVE at Fordify.tv.

The Founderz Lounge Episode #86 with Don Varady and Steve Bon.Why do franchisees and business owners fail even when they have access to better tools, stronger systems, and more information than ever before?In this episode of Business & Bullsh*t, Don and Steve break down the real reasons franchisees and business owners fail in 2026. What starts with travel pet peeves, streaming frustration, and AI ordering quickly turns into a bigger conversation about execution, accountability, adapting to change, and why so many operators blame the brand, the model, or the market instead of looking at their own decisions. They dig into what happens when owners stop following the system, assume they know better than the playbook they bought into, or fail to adjust as technology and customer behavior keep shifting.They also get into ChatGPT advertising, AI-driven ordering, why convenience keeps changing the game, and how fast business owners can fall behind when they ignore what is happening around them. Along the way, they mix in the usual Business & Bullsh*t chaos with strong opinions, side tangents, and a few reminders that common sense still matters.If you are tired of excuses, business blind spots, and watching people fail for reasons that were completely avoidable, this episode is for you.Timestamps:[00:00] Trailer and Intro[01:25] Founderz Roundup[02:22] AI ordering in ecom[02:59] ChatGPT ads are coming[03:56] Economic census frustration[06:37] California's new franchise bill[09:45] Random Bullsh*t[10:06] Streaming is becoming cable again[13:07] AI haircut clippers[16:02] Founderz Hot Take[16:03] Why franchisees really fail[18:42] Why experts blame franchisors[21:30] Franchisor feedback and advisory councils[23:17] Deviation kills franchisees[23:55] Founderz Fast Five[24:25] Travel pet peeves[26:07] Dumb but cool products[28:49] Business tools that feel outdated[31:08] Snacks from the 80s and 90s[32:39] Funniest thing seen latelyKey Takeaways:  • AI-driven ordering is going to become much more common in e-commerce, restaurants, supplements, and other buying experiences. ~Don Varady• “It's only a matter of time before you can get bumped to the top of what it's putting out there.” ~Steve Bon• Government red tape keeps making it harder for business owners to operate, even when they are just trying to build and grow. ~Steve Bon• “Ads keep creeping back at like an alarming rate unless you pay them more to go adless.” ~Don Varady• “Franchisees don't fail because of a bad model… they fail because they think they're smarter than the brand that they bought into.” ~Don Varady• Service providers often target franchisors instead of franchisees because there is more money in selling to the whole system than to one location at a time. ~Steve Bon• Strong franchise systems need feedback loops, but franchisees still fail when they stop following the system they bought into. ~Don Varady•  Deviation is the number one killer for a franchisee. ~Don VaradyConnect with Don and Steve…Don Varady:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/don.varady/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donvarady/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-varady-450896145 Steve Bon:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenbon Instagram: https://instagram.com/stevebon8 Tune in to every episode on your favorite platform: Website: https://www.thefounderzlounge.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFounderzLounge Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Nurr4XjBE747qJ9Zjth0G Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-founderz-lounge/id1461825349 

Leadership Beyond the Manual: Mastering the Franchise Journey with Steve WhitesideIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Podcast, host Josh Elledge sat down with Steve Whiteside, the President of flc.rocks, to discuss the often-ignored psychological and leadership hurdles of owning a franchise. While most people enter the world of franchising for the "business in a box" appeal, Steve—the author of The Happy Franchisee—explains that an operations manual cannot replace the strategic vision and emotional intelligence required to lead a team effectively. This conversation provides a vital roadmap for franchisees who feel stuck in the "hustle" and are looking to transition from reactive operators to purposeful leaders who enjoy both profitability and personal freedom.The Symbiotic Success Framework: Balancing Leadership, Culture, and ProfitThe franchise model is frequently marketed as a turnkey solution, but the gap between buying a system and running a successful organization is often bridged by leadership skills that franchisors rarely teach. Steve Whiteside points out that while a manual can dictate how to make a product, it fails to explain how to inspire a diverse workforce or how to navigate the isolation that many entrepreneurs feel. To move beyond mere survival, franchisees must treat their business as a leadership laboratory, supplementing the franchisor's operational guidelines with their own strategic playbook for team development and local culture. This transition requires a shift in identity; the owner must move from being the most hardworking employee in the building to becoming the architect of a system that thrives even in their absence.A thriving franchise ecosystem depends on a healthy, two-way relationship between the brand and its local owners, yet communication often breaks down into transactional frustration. Steve emphasizes that balance is a non-negotiable metric for long-term success; those who succumb to the "24/7 hustle" myth usually suffer from poor decision-making and high employee turnover. By auditing their time and delegating low-impact tasks, owners can protect their mental bandwidth and focus on high-level growth levers like community building and peer support. Engaging in peer forums or advisory councils allows franchisees to break the silo of isolation, offering a space where they can share best practices and find accountability with others who understand the unique constraints of their specific brand.To help owners diagnose where they truly stand, Steve developed the Franchise Health Indicator, a tool designed to measure the five critical pillars of leadership, communication, revenue flow, cash flow, and profits. Many business owners are "flying blind," looking only at top-line sales while ignoring the underlying structural cracks in their culture or cash management. By utilizing data-driven assessments, franchisees can move from "guessing" to "knowing," allowing them to implement specific improvements that stabilize the business and increase its valuation. Ultimately, the goal is to build a business that serves the owner's life, rather than one that consumes it, ensuring that the dream of entrepreneurship doesn't turn into a high-priced job.About Steve WhitesideSteve Whiteside is the President of the Franchise Leadership Center and a seasoned entrepreneur who has successfully owned and operated multiple franchise locations. With a doctorate in leadership and years of hands-on experience, Steve has dedicated his career to helping franchisees find happiness and high performance in their business ventures. He is a sought-after speaker, facilitator, and the author of The Happy Franchisee, a guide focused on the human side of the franchise industry.About flc.rocksflc.rocks (Franchise Leadership Center) is a dedicated resource hub designed to empower franchise owners through leadership training, peer forums, and diagnostic tools. The organization provides the "Franchise Health Indicator," a confidential assessment that helps owners identify operational and leadership gaps. By focusing on the development of the individual franchisee, flc.rocks helps brands strengthen their entire network through improved communication and personal development.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeFranchise Leadership Center Official Website: flc.rocksSteve Whiteside on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stevewhiteside/Key Episode HighlightsThe Leadership Gap: Why following a franchise manual isn't enough and how to develop the "soft skills" necessary for team management.The Hustle Myth: Breaking the cycle of 12-hour workdays by prioritizing delegation and intentional self-care.Symbiotic Relationships: How open communication and feedback loops between franchisors and franchisees drive system-wide innovation.Peer Power: The strategic advantage of joining forums to gain accountability and emotional support from fellow entrepreneurs.The Health Indicator: Using a data-backed assessment to audit your business's leadership, cash flow, and profit margins.ConclusionThe conversation with Steve Whiteside highlights that operational manuals are only the beginning of the franchise journey. Success is ultimately determined by an owner's ability to lead a team, maintain personal balance, and leverage community support to build a resilient, profitable, and happy business environment.More from The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Why are franchisees struggling right now?This week's episode of the Restaurant Business podcast A Deeper Dive features Austin Titus, the president of Accurate Franchising. Accurate Franchising is a consulting firm that works with franchisors and franchisees and so we talk about all kinds of things on this episode.We talk about struggles franchisees are having and why. Several franchisees have filed for bankruptcy and many are having challenges after a few difficult periods, with high costs and weak sales and traffic. We explain what's happened and how operators can deal with it.Titus talks about red flags franchisees can look for when considering a franchise brand to invest in. He also talks about how emerging chains can get the right franchisees early in their history and why that's important.We're talking franchising on A Deeper Dive so please check it out. Want more from Jonathan Maze?https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/profile/jonathan-mazeTik-Tok @jonathandmazehttps://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/article/week-restaurantsSubscribe to RB newsletters: https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com/newsletters

In this episode of HALO Talks, Pete Moore sits down with Tony Saxby, founder of W.O.L.F Fitness ("Workout Live Fierce") to explore his lifelong path in the HALO space. (Health, Active Lifestyle, Outdoors.) From humble beginnings as a teenage personal trainer at a local YMCA, through years of law enforcement, to building and scaling a unique community-centered gym franchise (that has attracted the attention of Dave Bautista), Saxby shares his philosophy for creating spaces that go far beyond four walls and equipment. Discover how W.O.L.F differentiates itself from big-box competitors like Planet Fitness and Crunch by prioritizing community, elevated amenities, and grassroots engagement, and why Tony believes finding the right franchise partners is the key to sustainable success. Whether you're interested in entrepreneurship, fitness, or learning what it takes to build a genuine community, this episode promises valuable insights from the frontlines of gym innovation. When Saxby opines on the truth about some franchise ownership situations, he pulls no punches. "One, they're often hyper-unaffordable for the regular person, you need like an investment group. Two, they're not really a gym. Their job is marketing. Their job is reselling you equipment every three to five years at full market while they're getting it for a lot less. That was something that we would never sign, my wife and I." Key themes discussed Building community-centric gyms over traditional gym models Challenges and lessons in franchising and selective growth Differentiating W.O.L.F gyms from competitors on amenities and size Importance of grassroots, local marketing and B2B partnerships Flexible pricing structure based on regional real estate Franchisee empowerment and fit for the W.O.L.F brand Upgrading tech and CRM systems for scaling operations A Few Key Takeaways 1.Community First, Gym Second: Tony emphasized that the W.O.L.F franchise is focused on building genuine community connections before building gyms. They prioritize engaging in grassroots efforts, fostering relationships with local businesses, and hosting regular open houses to embed themselves in neighborhoods. 14:09 2. Unique Franchise Approach and Accessibility: Unlike many fitness franchises, W.O.L.F aims for affordability and accessibility for regular individuals, not just large investment groups. Saxby's goal is to find "100 cool people" to run gyms defined by core values like honor, integrity, community, and commitment, rather than simply expanding numbers. 04:16 3. Selective Franchise Growth: Tony also talked about the hard lessons learned from early franchise expansion, admitting that saying yes to everyone led to some early failures. The brand has since become highly selective, investing in vetting and strong systems to ensure only the right people join. 05:19 4. Differentiation in the Market: W.O.L.F distinguishes itself from brands like Planet Fitness and Crunch not by undercutting prices, but by capping memberships for a better member experience, offering premium amenities (like red light therapy, cold plunge, and soon hyperbaric chambers), and (wisely!) resisting the race to the bottom on pricing.   5. Adaptability and Member Loyalty: The story came full circle with Saxby sharing examples of strong member loyalty, such as community support during COVID and gratitude over continual gym improvements. These reinforce W.O.L.F's commitment to being more than just a gym. It's very much a valued piece of members' daily lives. 21:54 Resources:  Tony Saxby: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-saxby-b120982a3  W.O.L.F. Fitness: https://www.wolfgyms.com    Integrity Square: https://www.integritysq.com Prospect Wizard: https://www.theprospectwizard.com Promotion Vault: https://www.promotionvault.com HigherDose: https://www.higherdose.com

Today, I'm joined by Anthony Geisler, founder & CEO of Sequel Brands.   A multi-brand fitness and wellness platform, Sequel Brands' portfolio of concepts span Pilates, stretching, EMS, and longevity.    In this episode, we discuss building futureproof franchises.   We also cover:   Sequel's five-brand platform  Scaling longevity-focused experiences Consumer behavior shifts across modalities  Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast  Subscribe to our newsletter → insider.fitt.co/subscribe  Follow us on LinkedIn → linkedin.com/company/fittinsider    Website: www.sequelbrands.com Explore all five brand concepts on the site.   -   The Fitt Insider Podcast is brought to you by EGYM. Visit EGYM.com to learn more about its smart fitness ecosystem for fitness and health facilities.   Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/  Consulting: https://consulting.fitt.co/  Investments: https://capital.fitt.co/    Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (01:34) Five-brand platform overview (02:25) Pilates Addiction (02:55) iFlex stretching and recovery (03:13) beem infrared sauna (03:20) BODY20 EMS technology (04:23) Ultimate Longevity Center launch (05:47) 100% ownership structure (07:15) Portfolio selection strategy (08:30) Sauna research (09:05) Democratizing longevity access (10:25) Gary Brecka partnership (11:35) Modality evolution over time (12:20) Post-COVID consumer shifts (13:15) Cycling's global decline (14:15) Equipment and offering evolution (15:23) Franchise playbook constants (16:19) ChatGPT and AI impacts (17:38) Value equation fundamentals (19:15) Cross-portfolio membership challenges (21:27) Finite inventory dynamics (22:34) Growth without pressure (24:40) Royalty business mindset (25:25) Discovery Day process (27:20) Franchisee selection rigor (27:45) Xponential story context (29:45) Public market challenges (31:10) COVID and Delta variant timing (32:07) Why keep building (33:28) Franchise life realities (35:14) Future acquisition appetite (36:11) Where to learn more (36:29) Conclusion

Franchise growth often looks straightforward from the outside. More locations, more visibility, and more brand recognition can give the impression that expansion is simply a matter of momentum. In reality, sustainable franchise growth requires a careful balance of leadership, systems, and culture. As brands expand, the real challenge becomes maintaining consistency while supporting individual operators and protecting what made the business successful in the first place. That balance is something Jackie Bondanza has navigated firsthand. As Founder of Hounds Town, Jackie has helped grow the brand from a single location into a rapidly expanding franchise approaching 100 units. What makes this journey notable is not just the growth itself, but how it has been achieved. Building a franchise brand requires more than a strong concept. It requires the ability to translate that concept into repeatable systems while preserving the culture that drives customer loyalty and franchisee engagement. Franchise growth becomes more complex as more stakeholders are introduced into the system. Early on, decisions can be made quickly and adjusted in real time. As a brand expands, those same decisions must be supported by processes, communication, and infrastructure that allow others to execute consistently. Without that structure, growth can create gaps in the customer experience and weaken brand perception. For Hounds Town, consistency plays a critical role. The brand's approach to pet care is built on a specific methodology designed to create better outcomes for both dogs and their owners. That level of consistency requires franchisees to follow systems closely while still building relationships within their local communities. It is this balance between structure and local ownership that often determines how well a franchise brand performs over time. Franchise growth also depends heavily on selecting the right operators. Not every prospective franchisee is the right fit for every brand. Successful systems prioritize alignment in values, expectations, and long-term commitment. When franchisees understand the importance of following proven systems while taking ownership of their local market, the brand is better positioned for sustainable expansion. Ford Saeks has long emphasized that growth without alignment can quickly create friction inside an organization. Systems are designed to support success, but they only work when they are followed and reinforced. In franchising, that alignment becomes even more important because each location represents the brand in a different market. Another factor that shapes franchise growth is the ability to adapt without losing identity. As brands scale, new challenges emerge that require adjustments in operations, marketing, and support. The strongest leaders recognize when to evolve systems while still protecting the core elements that define the brand experience. This is especially important in service-based businesses where consistency directly impacts customer trust. Community connection also plays a significant role in franchise success. While systems provide the foundation, local engagement drives awareness and long-term relationships. Franchisees who invest time in their communities often see stronger results because they are building trust at a local level while benefiting from a larger brand presence. Franchise growth is rarely a linear path. Challenges, unexpected obstacles, and moments of uncertainty are part of the process. What separates successful brands from others is the ability to stay focused on long-term objectives while navigating short-term complexity. Leadership, communication, and a clear vision all contribute to maintaining that focus. As Hounds Town approaches 100 locations, the brand continues to demonstrate that growth is not just about expansion. It is about building systems that work, supporting franchisees effectively, and creating an experience that customers can trust across every location. For founders, franchisors, and business leaders, the lesson is clear. Franchise growth is strongest when it is intentional, supported by systems, and aligned with a clear vision for the future. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Join Fordify LIVE every Wednesday at 11 a.m. Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. About Jackie Bondanza Jackie Bondanza is the Founder of Hounds Town, a rapidly growing dog daycare franchise with locations across the United States. Since discovering the concept as a customer, she has led the expansion of the brand from a single location to nearly 100 units, building a franchise system focused on consistency, community, and a distinctive approach to pet care. Under her leadership, Hounds Town continues to grow while maintaining a strong culture and commitment to franchisee success. Learn more at HoundsTownUSA.com About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator who has generated more than a billion dollars in sales worldwide by helping companies attract loyal customers, expand brand visibility, and drive innovation. As President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., Ford has founded more than ten companies, authored five books, earned three U.S. patents, and advised organizations ranging from startups to Fortune 500 brands. His expertise spans business growth strategy, customer acquisition, leadership, and AI-driven content systems that help companies improve results in a rapidly changing marketplace. Learn more at ProfitRichResults.com and watch Fordify LIVE at Fordify.tv.

JOIN THE BE WEALTHY MASTERMINDWant to join a room of entrepreneurs who think bigger about money? Go to bewealthypodcast.com and click Apply Now.How to Hire A-Players, Write a Vivid Vision, and Scale to $100M | Cameron HeroldLearn More About Cameron: https://cameronherold.comLearn More About COO Alliance: https://cooalliance.comCameron Herold — known as "The CEO Whisperer" — is the founder of the COO Alliance, host of the Second in Command podcast, and the operator who took 1-800-GOT-JUNK from $2M to $106M in six years (a Harvard Business School case study). He sits down with Brett to break down the five inflection points that scale a company, why A-players are actually free, the 4 corners every business needs, the 5 PR stories every business already has, and how Vivid Vision turns what's in a founder's head into something a team can actually build.TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Intro3:13 - The Golf Course Lesson That Made Him an Entrepreneur7:40 - Why You Should Let Your Kids Fail10:02 - First Venture at 7: Negotiating Pennies for Coat Hangers12:04 - Comic Book Arbitrage and the Gross Margin Lesson13:45 - College Pro Painters: 12 Employees by Age 2017:14 - Just Follow the System (Including the One You Hate)21:33 - 800 Franchisees, 8,000 Painters, $64M in 4 Months24:36 - Joining 1-800-GOT-JUNK as Employee #1425:30 - The 5 Inflection Points That Scaled $2M to $106M37:39 - Vivid Vision: The Contractor and Homeowner Analogy44:04 - The Rate-of-Change Rule That Will Bankrupt Most Companies46:15 - How to Double Revenue, Profit and Free Time in 3 Years47:02 - The Volleyball Story: Why 2 A-Players Beat 6 C-Players48:14 - The Real Cost of a Bad Hire: 15x Their Salary51:14 - The 4 Corners of Every Great Business53:34 - Navigating the Entrepreneurial Roller Coaster (And Your Spouse)55:30 - The 5 PR Stories Every Business Already Has59:33 - The Earned + Owned + Paid Media Trifecta1:01:55 - The Death Rate Is 100% — Care About People as Humans1:05:20 - Three Books That Changed Cameron's Life1:07:18 - Advice to His 18-Year-Old SelfBOOKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED:- Vivid Vision by Cameron Herold- Double Double by Cameron Herold- Free PR by Cameron Herold- Second in Command by Cameron Herold- Good to Great by Jim Collins- Insanely Simple by Ken Segall (about Apple)- Endurance by Alfred Lansing (the Shackleton story)- Cameron's TED Talk on raising kids to be entrepreneurs (TED.com, 2010)- COO Alliance — peer network for second-in-command operators (cooalliance.com)- Invest in Your Leaders — Cameron's 12-module leadership training (investinyourleaders.com)- Second in Command podcast — hosted by Cameron HeroldGET CONNECTED:Website: www.BeWealthy.comYouTube: youtube.com/@bewealthybrettInstagram: instagram.com/bewealthybrettFacebook: facebook.com/brettbewealthyX/Twitter: x.com/bewealthybrettFREE RESOURCES:Free Tools & Downloads: https://www.bewealthybrett.com/resourcesCost Segregation Studies & 45L Tax Credit: SingleFamilyCostSeg.comInfinite Banking Education: SaveLikeaBank.comSelf-Directed IRA: MaxOutRetirement.comTrust & Entity Structure: SetupMyEstate.comOff-Market Deals & Direct Mail: TheMagicMailers.com1031 Exchange: Exchange1031Now.comBookkeeping & Financial Services: BooksOffMyPlate.comPPC & Digital Marketing for RE Investors: ScaleMyDeals.comABOUT THE SHOW:The Be Wealthy Podcast brings entrepreneurs the strategies to grow their business — then teaches them how to think about their money. Because wealth is far more than money — it's freedom. Hosted by Brett Tanner & co-pilot Katelyn Mitchell.Mission: Get Free.DISCLAIMER:Be Wealthy and its affiliates do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational and entertainment purposes only. You should consult your own tax, legal, and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction.GUEST INFO:Cameron Herold is the founder of the COO Alliance and the operator behind some of the fastest-growing companies in North America. He scaled 1-800-GOT-JUNK from $2M to $106M in six years (a Harvard Business School case study), helped take Boyd Auto Body / Gerber Collision public (now a $2B chain), and has personally trained over 120 entrepreneurs including Kimbal Musk and Peter Rive (SolarCity). Author of Vivid Vision, Double Double, Free PR, and Second in Command. Has been paid to speak in 26 countries on 6 continents and is known worldwide as "The CEO Whisperer."

This week on the Franchise Your Business webinar series, we're joined by Paul Masters, Founder of Perissos Leadership Coaching and Master Franchisee and CEO of Anago of Atlanta.Since acquiring Anago of Atlanta in 2017, Paul has driven consistent growth and earned Top 10 Performer recognition within the franchise system. As an executive coach, he works closely with franchise leaders to strengthen strategy, accountability, and execution, helping them build scalable and profitable businesses.In this session, Paul shares how structured monthly masterminds can reduce franchisee isolation, improve consistency across systems, and accelerate performance through peer learning and strategic dialogue.This was a live recording on April 17, 2026 at approximately 1:00 PM Eastern USA.Ready to talk about franchising your business or help with your franchise efforts? Book a complimentary consultation with one of our consultants: https://bigskyfranchiseteam.com/consultation-routing/#callSubscribe to our other podcast: Multiply Your Success: https://www.multiplyyoursuccesspodcast.com/Subscribe to our other podcast: Franchise Your Business: https://open.spotify.com/show/7Ff8rTBR1Oykv4dIOOBdhnLearn more about our guest:https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulmastersatlanta/This episode is powered by Big Sky Franchise Team. Big Sky Franchise Team is consistently recognized as one of the best franchise consulting firms in the United States, helping entrepreneurs franchise their businesses through a proven 3-Step franchise process rooted in ethical principles, hands-on guidance, and customized deliverables.  If you are ready to talk about franchising your business you can schedule your free, no-obligation, franchise consultation online at: https://bigskyfranchiseteam.com/. The information provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any business decisions. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Big Sky Franchise Team, or our affiliates. Additionally, this podcast may feature sponsors or advertisers, but any mention of products or services does not constitute an endorsement. Please do your own research before making any purchasing or business decisions.  References to external data sources, studies, statistics, or other third-party content are not claimed as our own unless explicitly stated. We do our best to provide proper credit and citation where due. If we unintentionally fail to cite or credit a source, please let us know, and we'll gladly ...

Laura, Andreas, Peter and Sam from Jim's Building Inspections have a chat about how they run their business, the industry and how being a franchisee has been for them personally in this open franchisee roundtable.

Taco Bell is turning up the heat on its Nacho Fries. Chili's unveiled its new chicken sandwich. Jack in the Box is trying to keep a franchisee from closing 38 restaurants. Learn more about Menu Masters: https://menumastersevent.com/?utm_source=skot&utm_medium=radio&utm_campaign=mm26&utm_content=podcast

Today on Community, Kristina sits down with the incredible Kimberley Hiebert, CEO of Door Gurus to dive into Kimberley's journey from the streets of Vancouver to becoming a successful business owner, franchisor, and community builder. Key topics covered:From being a foster child to running multiple successful businesses, Kim discusses how every part of her past has led her to where she is today.Despite its challenges, Kim reflects on the power of building businesses with family and the trust that comes with it.How moving from a paycheck mentality to a profit mindset, along with smart investing, transformed her financial future.The importance of relationships and community building.How networking (the real way!) has played a pivotal role in her entrepreneurial journey.Kimberley's story, personality and business expertise are a rare combination that make her truly one of a kind. Don't miss out on her candid insights that will empower you to build from the ground up and believe for more.Kimberley is proof that with resilience, community, and the right amount of risk, you can create the life and business you've always dreamed of!Connect with Kim:FOUND-HerFOUND-Her PodcastKim's Episode with KristinaInstagramSend me a text!The Climb with Cherie Clonan The Climb is a podcast for people building something meaningful and finding their..Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showFor Your Information:• Host your podcast on Buzzsprout!•Join The High Vibe Women Online Community!• Join our favourite scheduling platform Later• FLODESK Affiliate Code | 25% off your first year!• Connect with Kristina  Don't forget to come say hi to us on Instagram @thesocialsnippet, join the Weekly Snippet or follow us on any social media platform! Website . Instagram . Facebook . Linkedin

Landlords think the FAT Brands sale process is moving too quickly. A bankrupt franchisee is blaming California's $20 fast food wage for its problems. And Panera has a new menu line.Learn more about Menu Masters: https://menumastersevent.com/?utm_source=skot&utm_medium=radio&utm_campaign=mm26&utm_content=podcast

Anna Dey is a multi-unit and multi-brand franchise entrepreneur who has spent the past decade building businesses across Northeast Ohio. Since getting her start in franchising with an Anytime Fitness location in 2012, she has gone on to own and operate franchises across several systems including Clean Eatz, Smoothie King, The Vitamin Shoppe, Barrio Tacos + Tequila, and goGLOW, earning national recognition along the way as both Franchisee of the Year and Multi-Unit Owner of the Year.Today, Anna also works as a franchise consultant at The franSPOT, where she helps aspiring entrepreneurs explore and launch franchise businesses of their own. Alongside her entrepreneurial work, Anna is the founder of *24 in 24*, an endurance running event where participants run one mile every hour for twenty-four consecutive hours — an event that has grown from a small community fitness challenge into a Northeast Ohio institution that has raised more than $3 million for children battling life-threatening illnesses.In our conversation, Anna and I explore franchising as a pathway to entrepreneurship — how the model works, why it can be such a powerful on-ramp to business ownership, and what she's learned operating multiple franchise brands across different industries. We also talk about her evolution as an entrepreneur, how she evaluates franchise opportunities today, the importance of building strong teams and delegation, the story behind 24 in 24, and lots more. I very much enjoyed our conversation together — as you'll hear, anna is full of passion and knowledge — and I hope you enjoy it as well!-----LINKS:https://www.linkedin.com/in/annamdeyhttps://www.goglow.cohttps://www.thefranspot.comhttp://www.cleaneatz.comhttp://www.smoothieking.comhttp://www.the24in24.org-----SPONSOR:Cerity PartnersCerity Partners, a full-service investment and wealth management firm serving high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and business owners, is proud to sponsor Lay of The Land. The firm has local roots in Cleveland and across Ohio, and like this podcast, Cerity Partners advisors specialize in serving the interests of local entrepreneurs and business leaders. They understand how to manage the total picture of wealth, both personal and professional. Cerity Partners has a unified team of specialists who collaborate on almost every aspect of a client's financial life, including business ownership. The firm's national presence means it can offer the resources and specialized knowledge of the largest institutions with the independence and service of a neighbor. The Cerity Partners Cleveland team understands the complexity that comes with wealth, and they adhere to fiduciary standards. Discover the financial lay of your land.Learn more at ceritypartners.com/NPR or call 216-464-6266.Roundstone InsuranceRoundstone Insurance is proud to sponsor Lay of The Land. Founder and CEO, Michael Schroeder, has committed full-year support for the podcast, recognizing its alignment with the company's passion for entrepreneurship, innovation, and community leadership.Headquartered in Rocky River, Ohio, Roundstone was founded in 2005 with a vision to deliver better healthcare outcomes at a more affordable cost. To bring that vision to life, the company pioneered the group medical captive model — a self-funded health insurance solution that provides small and mid-sized businesses with greater control and significant savings.Over the past two decades, Roundstone has grown rapidly, creating nearly 200 jobs in Northeast Ohio. The company works closely with employers and benefits advisors to navigate the complexities of commercial health insurance and build custom plans that prioritize employee well-being over shareholder returns. By focusing on aligned incentives and better health outcomes, Roundstone is helping businesses save thousands in Per Employee Per Year healthcare costs. Roundstone Insurance — Built for entrepreneurs. Backed by innovation. Committed to Cleveland.Learn more at https://roundstoneinsurance.com/-----Stay up to date by signing up for Lay of The Land's weekly newsletter — sign up here: https://layoftheland.ck.page/5f0c1e28faConnect with Jeffrey Stern on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreypstern/Follow Lay of The Land on X @podlayofthelandhttps://www.jeffreys.page/

This conversation contains occasional adult language and may not be suitable for all audiences. Scaling culture is one of the most overlooked challenges in business growth. Expansion often gets measured in locations, revenue, and visibility, but the real test of sustainable success happens behind the scenes. As organizations grow, leaders must create systems that preserve identity, strengthen decision-making, and support people without losing what made the business work in the first place. That is where Kyla Dufresne has built her leadership advantage. As Founder and CEO of The Foxy Box Wax Bar, Kyla has transformed a bold idea into one of Canada's most recognizable franchise concepts in the beauty space. What began as a business launched from determination and limited resources has grown into a multi-location franchise brand known for its distinctive voice, strong customer loyalty, and clear operational identity. Her path reflects something many founders experience but few openly discuss: growth becomes far more complex once systems, people, and expectations begin multiplying. Early entrepreneurial success often depends on instinct and personal drive. Long-term growth requires a very different mindset. Scaling culture means shifting from doing everything personally to building frameworks that help others succeed consistently. That transition is especially important in franchising, where every new location depends on more than brand recognition. Franchisees need support, clarity, and systems that help them make strong decisions locally while staying aligned with the larger brand. Without that structure, even strong concepts can lose momentum. Kyla's leadership approach has increasingly centered on that reality. As The Foxy Box Wax Bar expanded, operational discipline became just as important as creativity. Clear communication, stronger internal systems, and more intentional support structures all became necessary to help the business move forward without compromising brand identity. Scaling culture also requires leaders to understand when growth should slow down in order to strengthen what already exists. Many entrepreneurs assume speed always equals progress, but sustainable brands often grow strongest when leaders pause long enough to evaluate systems, refine priorities, and prepare for the next stage intentionally. That principle is especially relevant in franchising, where rapid expansion can expose weaknesses that are not visible during early success. Strong franchise systems are not simply about opening more units. They are about building consistency across leadership, operations, marketing, and support so that growth becomes repeatable rather than reactive. Ford Saeks has long emphasized this same idea across business growth strategy: what gets a company started rarely supports the next level without refinement. Systems must evolve as leadership evolves. Growth creates new pressures, and those pressures often reveal where stronger infrastructure is needed. Kyla's willingness to seek outside expertise reflects a leadership maturity that many growing founders eventually need to develop. Advisory support, strategic coaching, and experienced perspective can help identify blind spots before they become larger obstacles. For leaders scaling brands, outside insight often accelerates internal clarity. Another reason scaling culture matters is because culture influences decisions long before it appears in metrics. Hiring, messaging, customer experience, franchise support, and leadership expectations all flow from the culture a company builds. If that culture is unclear, inconsistency follows quickly. For The Foxy Box Wax Bar, maintaining a distinct identity has remained central to growth. Brand personality, community connection, and a bold customer-facing experience all contribute to differentiation in a competitive market. But behind that visible identity is the less visible work of building stronger franchise systems that can support long-term expansion. Scaling culture also means protecting what makes a company unique while still allowing leadership to evolve. Founders often face the challenge of staying true to their original vision while recognizing that growth demands different tools, different people, and different structures than the early stages required. That balance is what separates brands that expand successfully from those that stall under their own momentum. For founders, franchise leaders, and business owners, the larger lesson is clear: growth is not just about adding more. It is about strengthening what supports the next level. Scaling culture requires intention, humility, and the discipline to build systems that serve both people and performance. Kyla Dufresne's work continues to demonstrate that strong brands are not built by avoiding challenges. They are built by learning through them, refining systems, and staying committed to growth that remains aligned with purpose. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Join Fordify LIVE every Wednesday at 11 a.m. Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. About Kyla Dufresne Kyla Dufresne is the Founder and CEO of The Foxy Box Wax Bar, a franchise brand recognized for its bold identity, strong culture, and community-centered growth. What began as a single concept has expanded into a growing multi-location business built on leadership, operational systems, and a commitment to helping others succeed through franchising. Under her leadership, The Foxy Box Wax Bar continues to grow while maintaining a distinctive voice and clear brand purpose. Learn more at FoxyBoxWaxBar.com. About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator with more than 20 years of experience helping organizations generate scalable, profitable growth. He has driven over one billion dollars in sales worldwide for companies ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500 brands by helping leaders align strategy, systems, and execution. As President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., Ford works with business owners and executives to attract loyal customers, strengthen brand positioning, and ignite innovation. He has founded more than ten companies, authored five books, earned three U.S. patents, and received numerous industry awards for marketing and business excellence. Ford is widely recognized for his expertise in modern growth strategies, including AI-driven marketing, customer engagement, and operational efficiency. He hosts Fordify LIVE and The Business Growth Show Podcast, where he shares insights and conversations designed to help leaders think differently, act strategically, and grow with intention. Learn more at ProfitRichResults.com and watch his show at Fordify.tv.

Felicia is joined by Ben Turnbull to discuss men behaving badly in Jean Renoir's Boudu Saved From Drowning (1932). We chat about how generous Renoir is as a director and artist, along with the empathy he has for members of varying social classes. Send us your thoughts on the episode by sending us a message on any of our social platforms or by email: seeingfacesinmovies@gmail.com Find Ben here: Watch Ben in Cherub (Devin Shears 2025): https://www.cherubfilm.com/ IG: @The Franchisees Podcast on Spotify: @TheFranchisees Letterboxd: @ben_turnbull Twitter: @FartonFink IG: @benjamin.turnbull Listen to our previous episodes here: Written on the Wind (Douglas Sirk 1956) Sources: Renoir, J., & Cardullo, B. (2005). Jean Renoir: Interviews. University Press of Mississippi. Renoir, J., & Denny, N. (2004). My life and my films. Da Capo Press. https://r-emmetsweeney.com/2020/02/28/the-tramp-boudu-saved-from-drowning-1932/ https://www.tcm.com/articles/101890/boudu-saved-from-drowning https://www.criterion.com/current/posts/380-boudu-saved-from-drowning-tramping-in-the-city https://www.sensesofcinema.com/2003/great-directors/renoir/#36

McDonald's is teaming up with KPop Demon Hunters. A large Applebee's franchisee has filed for bankruptcy. And Krispy Kreme has sold a majority stake in a joint venture.

Send us Fan MailWhen franchisees start buying more units, that's not a marketing claim. That's a verdict. It's exactly what's happening inside GLO30 — and it's why we had to get founder Dr. Arleen Lamba on the show. GLO30 isn't a facial bar. It isn't a med spa. Dr. Lamba calls it a health club for your skin — and she ran four corporate units for 11 years before she ever sold a single franchise. Her first two franchisees weren't investors who found her on Google. They were members who moved to Florida and fought over who got to sign first. In this episode, she walks us through everything: how Gloria, GLO30's proprietary AI skin scan, measures hydration, pigment, and texture so members can actually track progress over time. How a $99 monthly Smart Glow facial adapts to your data instead of pulling from a generic menu. How a $125 Botox membership eliminates the $1,000 quarterly sticker shock. And why customers who have stayed for 13 years didn't stay because of the newest treatment — they stayed because of the system. For the franchise-minded listener, she gets specific: a lean four-to-five room footprint under 1,000 square feet, a presale model that opens studios with members already booked, and a training system you can monitor from the beach. She also makes the case for why keeping a corporate location isn't optional — it's the heartbeat of the brand. When existing franchisees are doubling down with their own money, you pay attention. This episode tells you exactly why. Subscribe, share with someone exploring franchise ownership, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway. 

At the IFA Convention in Las Vegas, Lance Graulich interviews Missy Wright, VP of Franchise Development at Five Star Franchising, about what makes franchisees successful, why more women and younger entrepreneurs are entering franchising, and how to choose the right business model. Missy shares insights on Five Star Franchising, including Card My Yard, Mosquito Shield, and Gotcha Covered, and explains the importance of systems, coaching, hiring, recurring revenue, and franchisee validation. They also discuss AI in franchising, resale vs. starting new, and the traits top-performing franchise owners have in common. If you're exploring franchise ownership, low-investment franchises, or the best franchise opportunities, this episode is packed with practical advice.

What if the “right” move in HVAC was the one most contractors refuse to do?Derek Cole (Simmons One Hour, NC) was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at 31, and still built one of the most consistent growth stories in the industry, earning One Hour Franchisee of the Year out of 400+ franchisees.In the Season 3 premiere of Change Your Filter, Derek and Paul Redman get into the real playbook:✅  Why Derek believes customers aren't listening until they know the price✅  What happened when he put pricing online (and what he didn't lose)✅  How a rural market with long “windshield time” can still win big✅  The systems that create trust: reviews, standards, response, and communication✅  His content strategy (thousands of posts) and why “answering questions” beats marketing tricks✅  The AI twist: “Derek AI” trained on 900,000+ words of content to help customers and employees instantly✅  The leadership mindset that keeps him moving forward through MS: next rep, next playWatch now and tell us this: Are you team “pricing online” or team “keep it hidden”?eCommerce for Contractors ... Learn More.Follow us on social!LinkedInFacebookInstagram

Want to Start or Grow a Successful Business? Schedule a FREE 13-Point Assessment with Clay Clark Today At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com   Join Clay Clark's Thrivetime Show Business Workshop!!! Learn Branding, Marketing, SEO, Sales, Workflow Design, Accounting & More. **Request Tickets & See Testimonials At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com  **Request Tickets Via Text At (918) 851-0102   See the Thousands of Success Stories and Millionaires That Clay Clark Has Helped to Produce HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ Download A Millionaire's Guide to Become Sustainably Rich: A Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Successful Money-Generating and Time-Freedom Creating Business HERE: www.ThrivetimeShow.com/Millionaire   See Thousands of Case Studies Today HERE: www.thrivetimeshow.com/does-it-work/  

McDonald's is ready to put its new Big Arch burger to its biggest test yet. Domino's wants its largest franchisee to get back on track. And Portillo's continues to face consequences from its previous development strategy.

Season 7 MASTERMIND MINUTES - ONE GUEST, ONE QUESTION, ONE EXPERT ANSWER IN MINUTES, NOT HOURS. Today's guest is Ali Kraus, CFE, who is the Chief Marketing Officer at Benetrends Financial, where she leads the company's marketing and growth strategy. With over a decade in franchising, Ali has built a reputation for creating meaningful connections and driving innovative campaigns that empower entrepreneurs. She also serves as Vice Chair of the International Franchise Association's Women's Franchise Committee, helping to champion leadership and inclusivity across the industry. Beyond franchising, Ali is the co-founder of FurryFrans, a nonprofit that collects and distributes stuffed animals to children in crisis. A former NFL cheerleader for the Baltimore Ravens, Ali now balances her professional life with family, coaching, and giving back to her community.Contact Ali at: https://www.benetrends.com/Contact Gary at: info@frangrow.comVisit: www.franchisegrowthsolutions.com

Franchisee empowerment begins with confidence, and confidence is built through clarity, structure, and support. For many entrepreneurs entering franchising, the promise of ownership can quickly feel overwhelming without the right systems in place. That reality is what Alisa Sparks set out to change when she founded Linden Creek. Alisa's path to franchise leadership did not begin with franchising at all. Her background included managing complex, high-stakes budgets in the military before launching a home staging business out of her garage. What started as a creative venture quickly revealed a larger opportunity. As demand grew, so did the need for repeatable systems, operational discipline, and tools that allowed quality and consistency to scale without sacrificing creativity. Franchisee empowerment became the foundation of Linden Creek's evolution. Rather than focusing solely on expansion, Alisa built the brand around enabling franchise partners to operate with confidence from day one. That meant designing processes that removed guesswork, simplified logistics, and gave franchisees the structure needed to focus on serving clients and building relationships. Linden Creek's franchise model reflects this intentional approach. Franchisees are supported by done-for-you systems, hands-on training, and proprietary inventory software that streamlines installs, logistics, and marketing. Technology is not positioned as an add-on but as a core component of operational confidence. By reducing friction in daily operations, franchise partners are able to make better decisions, manage their time effectively, and grow with consistency. Franchisee empowerment also shows up in how Linden Creek approaches mentorship and support. Alisa understands that systems alone are not enough. People need guidance, accountability, and a clear understanding of how to apply tools in real-world scenarios. By combining structure with ongoing support, Linden Creek creates an environment where franchisees feel equipped rather than overwhelmed. Ford Saeks brings a complementary perspective shaped by decades of helping businesses grow through alignment. From his experience, operational confidence is a prerequisite for sustainable success. When systems, leadership, and technology work together, businesses gain momentum without creating unnecessary strain. That alignment allows owners to focus on strategy instead of constantly reacting to operational challenges. The home staging and interior design industry presents its own complexities. It blends creativity with logistics, aesthetics with execution. Franchisee empowerment in this space requires more than a playbook. It requires systems that respect creative professionals while giving them the structure needed to operate efficiently. Linden Creek's model demonstrates how thoughtful operational design can support both artistry and business performance. Franchisee empowerment also plays a critical role in retention and long-term brand strength. When franchise partners feel supported and confident, they are more likely to stay engaged, follow systems, and contribute positively to the culture. That consistency strengthens the brand at every touchpoint, from client experience to internal collaboration. Alisa's leadership reflects a deep understanding of what it takes to build trust within a franchise system. By prioritizing transparency, support, and practical tools, she has created a framework where franchisees are not left to figure things out on their own. Instead, they are given a clear path forward, reinforced by technology and mentorship. Franchisee empowerment is not about removing responsibility from owners. It is about equipping them to take ownership with confidence. Linden Creek's growth illustrates what is possible when operational clarity replaces complexity and support replaces uncertainty. Through her work, Alisa Sparks continues to demonstrate that strong franchises are built by empowering people, not just expanding footprints. When franchisees are confident in their operations, the entire system benefits, creating a brand that is resilient, consistent, and positioned for long-term success. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Join Fordify LIVE every Wednesday at 11 a.m. Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. About Alisa Sparks Alisa Sparks is the Founder and CEO of Linden Creek, a national home staging and interior design franchise built on operational clarity, technology, and franchisee support. After launching Linden Creek from her garage, Alisa transformed the business into a franchise model designed to empower creative entrepreneurs with the systems, mentorship, and tools needed to operate confidently. Her leadership focuses on simplifying complexity and creating environments where franchise partners can thrive. Learn more at Linden-Creek.com. About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator with more than 20 years of experience helping organizations drive scalable, profitable growth. He has generated over one billion dollars in sales worldwide for companies ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500 brands by helping leaders align strategy, systems, and execution. As President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., Ford works with business owners and executives to attract loyal customers, strengthen brand positioning, and ignite innovation. He has founded more than ten companies, authored five books, earned three U.S. patents, and received numerous industry awards for marketing and business excellence. Ford is widely recognized for his expertise in modern growth strategies, including AI-driven marketing, customer engagement, and operational efficiency. He hosts Fordify LIVE and The Business Growth Show Podcast, where he shares insights and conversations designed to help leaders think differently, act strategically, and grow with intention. Learn more at ProfitRichResults.com and watch his show at Fordify.tv.

What happens when you launch a dessert brand in the middle of a global shutdown… scale it to 31 locations… and then face economic whiplash, legal chaos, and a near-hostile takeover?In this episode, I sit down with Matt Thomas, co-founder of Cookie Co., to unpack one of the most honest entrepreneurial journeys we've ever had on BizNinja. This isn't just about cookies. It's about resilience, leadership under pressure, and what it really takes to rebuild when everything feels like it's unraveling.Matt didn't plan to build a national cookie brand during a pandemic. But when his branding agency collapsed in March 2020, he and his wife Elise went all-in on Cookie Co.—a passion project born from her lifelong love of baking.From selling cookies out of their garage (while neighbors suspected something sketchy) to hitting $1.3M in year one, the growth was explosive. Franchise interest poured in. Within a few years, they reached 31 locations across multiple states.Then the economy shifted.Eggs and butter doubled. Inflation soared. Franchisees struggled. A strategic partnership turned into a legal nightmare involving system lockouts and reputational damage.Through it all, Matt shares what he's learned about resilience, leadership, ego, and the brutal honesty entrepreneurship demands.This episode is about grit. And it's about evolving before the market forces you to. What You'll LearnWhy door-to-door sales is one of the best entrepreneurial training groundsHow Cookie Co. scaled to 31 locations during economic uncertaintyThe hidden complexities of franchisingWhat happens when inflation crushes your margins overnightHow to navigate lawsuits, PR damage, and operational chaosWhy listening to customers is your most underrated growth strategyThe mindset shift required to survive and rebuildChapters00:00 Welcome to BizNinja02:40 Matt's Early Entrepreneurial Roots06:30 Launching Cookie Co During COVID10:00 The Leap Into Franchising15:50 Inflation Hits and the Real Struggles Begin19:05 Strategic Partnership Turns Hostile23:10 The Power of Pivoting and Listening to Customers27:20 Business as a Vehicle for Life

What actually separates great franchise owners from those who struggle?In this episode, Alloy founder Rick Mayo sits down with Tammi, a seasoned franchise business coach with experience across multiple national brands, to break down the real traits that drive long-term franchise success.They dig into why employee turnover is usually a leadership problem, how owner involvement directly impacts retention, and why “semi-absentee ownership” is often misunderstood, and overestimated.If you're considering franchise ownership (or already in it), this conversation is a reality check on what it really takes to win.

Franchise leadership lives or dies by the strength of the franchisor and franchisee relationship.In this episode, we're joined by Tom Wood, President and CEO of Floor Coverings International, for a conversation about what effective franchise leadership actually looks like in practice. Having served as a franchisee, founding executive, growth leader, and CEO, Tom brings more than four decades of experience and a rare, balanced perspective on both sides of the franchise relationship.Tom shares how his time as a franchisee continues to inform the way he leads today, and why franchisors and franchisees must clearly understand and respect their distinct roles. We explore the tension that often exists in the franchisor and franchisee relationship, especially during periods of change, innovation, and growth, and why leadership missteps usually happen when that balance breaks down.We also dive into what drives sustainable franchising growth, from how high-performing franchise owners think differently to why investing in people, systems, and marketing is non-negotiable. Tom explains why strong mentorship, disciplined fundamentals, and a willingness to listen are essential for scaling a franchise system without losing trust along the way.So, whether you're leading a mature brand or building an emerging brand, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at franchise leadership that prioritizes alignment, accountability, and long-term growth.Connect with TomFloor Covering International - https://floorcoveringsinternational.com/Email - Twood@FCIFloors.comLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-wood-cfe-8580727/Episode Highlights:Franchise leadership through empathy and trustThe real role of the franchisor vs the franchiseeWhy strong franchisor and franchisee relationships matterLeadership mistakes that break trustWhat top-performing franchise owners do differentlyFranchising growth requires people and investmentMentorship as a leadership advantageWhy great leaders don't believe their own pressConnect with Tracy Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-panase/ JBF LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/jbfsale JBF Franchise System - https://jbfsalefranchise.com/ Email: podcast@jbfsale.com Connect with Shannon Personal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonwilburn/ JBF LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/jbfsale Website - https://shineexecutivecoaching.com/ Email - shannon@shineexecutivecoaching.com

In this episode, Eric Malzone chats with Verdine Baker, who shares his inspiring journey from being a professional athlete

BIO: Jon is the Founder and CEO of FranBridge Consulting, a 2-time Inc. 5000 company, and a leading franchise consultant.STORY: Jon believes franchising remains one of the most effective ways to build durable income, especially when investors focus on operational discipline and unit economics. He shares his top franchise categories for 2026.LEARNING: Look for businesses with repeat customers, operational discipline, proven unit economics, and leadership teams that have already made their mistakes.Guest profileJon Ostenson is the Founder and CEO of FranBridge Consulting, a 2-time Inc. 5000 company, and he is a top 1% franchise consultant. Jon is also the author of the bestselling book, Non-Food Franchising. Jon draws on his experience as a former Inc. 500 Franchise President and Multi-Brand Franchisee in helping his clients select their franchise investments.For many aspiring business owners, the biggest financial losses don't come from bad intentions. They come from underestimating complexity, overestimating scalability, or betting everything on an unproven idea. Jon Ostenson knows this lesson intimately.As the founder and CEO of FranBridge Consulting and franchise consultant, Jon has spent years helping entrepreneurs shortcut costly mistakes by investing in proven, non-food franchise models.In Episode 815: I Built a Million-Dollar Business That Never Made a Profit, he openly shared how he once built a million-dollar business that never made a profit. That experience now informs how he evaluates opportunities with discipline, structure, and risk control.Looking ahead to 2026, Jon believes franchising remains one of the most effective ways to build a durable income stream, especially when investors focus on operational discipline and unit economics. Below are his top franchise categories for 2026, and more importantly, why they help investors avoid the common traps that sink new businesses.Why Franchising Can Help Investors Avoid Big MistakesOne of the most common investment errors is assuming passion alone will overcome operational complexity. Many entrepreneurs love an idea but underestimate the systems, staffing, pricing discipline, and capital required to make it profitable.Franchising addresses this risk by offering something rare: a business model with historical data. Instead of guessing whether pricing works or whether customers will pay, franchisees can examine real-world performance, talk to existing owners, and follow systems that have already survived market cycles, helping investors feel confident in demand-driven, structured opportunities.Jon emphasizes that franchising is not about eliminating risk. It's about trading unbounded risk for structured risk, supported by systems, training, and benchmarks.1. Cost Mitigation Consulting: Profits Without PayrollCost-mitigation franchises help small and medium-sized businesses reduce expenses by analyzing vendor contracts, utility bills, shipping costs, and other fees. Clients pay nothing up front and instead share a percentage of the savings.What makes this model compelling is its simplicity. There's no inventory, no employees required, and no large infrastructure investment. Franchisees focus on business-to-business sales...

Welcome back to the Franchise Fit Podcast — I'm your host Lance Graulich. Today I'm joined by Keith McBride, a successful 1-800-PACKOUTS franchisee in the Philadelphia / Philly Metro market (

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani is upset about the price of tickets to the World Cup, and a Hilton franchisee messed around and found out.  Visit the Howie Carr Radio Network website to access columns, podcasts, and other exclusive content.