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What if the reason you're not achieving the success you want has nothing to do with willpower, discipline, or "trying harder"? In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Dr. Noah St. John, known worldwide as The Zero-Friction Doctor and The Father of Affirmations, to explore what truly holds people back from success—and how to remove it. Dr. Noah shares his powerful personal story, from growing up in poverty and facing a life-or-death crossroads, to discovering the hidden forces that unconsciously sabotage success. He explains why traditional goal-setting and habit strategies often fail, and why lasting change only happens when we address the 95% of behavior driven by the subconscious mind. In this conversation, you'll learn: Why willpower is one of the weakest tools for change How "hidden friction" acts like an invisible brake on success The difference between procrastination and delayed gratification Why self-sabotage is a symptom—not the root cause How to identify and remove subconscious barriers to growth Dr. Noah's Freedom Lifestyle Formula: time, energy, relationships, and money This episode is a must-watch for entrepreneurs, franchise leaders, and anyone who feels stuck despite doing "all the right things."
In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Valerie Bowden, Founder and CEO of CRDLE—a company redefining global outsourcing by connecting U.S. businesses with top-tier talent across Africa. Valerie shares her extraordinary journey from growing up in the Midwest to backpacking solo across Africa, living in Ethiopia for eight years, and ultimately building a high-growth, mission-driven company focused on ethical job creation and world-class remote teams. In this conversation, you'll learn: Why Africa is the next major hub for global talent How ethical outsourcing can drive both profit and impact The biggest misconceptions about hiring African remote professionals Why job creation can be more powerful than traditional charity How franchisors and business owners can scale faster with global teams What it means to build a business by following courage—not convention This episode is a must-listen for franchisors, franchisees, founders, and leaders exploring remote teams, global expansion, and purpose-driven growth.
In this powerful episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Bishop Kevin Foreman—pastor, entrepreneur, author, and widely known as The People's Bishop. From starting his first business at age 12 to being ordained at just 19, Bishop Foreman shares how faith and business are not opposing forces—but complementary ones. He unpacks what it truly means to lead with purpose, break generational curses, and step boldly into your calling, even when fear and uncertainty are present. In this episode, you'll learn: Why faith and business must work together—not separately How to break generational patterns that limit growth and success The role of boldness, action, and responsibility in leadership Why valleys often precede breakthroughs in business and life How entrepreneurs can partner with nonprofits to create real community impact What it means to live as both a "king and a priest" in today's world This conversation is deeply inspiring for franchisors, franchisees, entrepreneurs, and leaders seeking to build something that outlives them.
In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, host Rebecca Monet sits down with Tracy Tilson, President and Founder of Tilson PR, to explore what truly drives effective public relations in today's fast-moving, tech-driven world. Tracy shares why PR remains, at its core, a relationship business—and how listening, curiosity, and genuine gratitude create long-term brand awareness. She dives into her four foundational principles—tenacity, creativity, integrity, and gratitude—and explains how these values shape her agency's work with franchisors, franchisees, and national brands. This conversation covers: Why technology and AI are tools—not replacements—for human connection How strong relationships with media, influencers, and collaborators are built What "story mining" really means and how to find compelling angles in any business Why gratitude and integrity are competitive advantages How creativity helps "boring" businesses stand out The entrepreneurial mindset behind building a boutique PR firm by design If you're a franchisor, entrepreneur, or business leader looking to build brand awareness through authentic storytelling and relationships, this episode is packed with insight you won't want to miss.
In this inspiring episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, host Rebecca Monet sits down with Walter Núñez, founder and franchisor of A & P Painting & Flooring, to explore how one man's immigrant journey from Peru led to building one of the most purpose-driven brands in home services. Walter shares how he went from selling used computers as a student in New Jersey to building retail stores, running Verizon franchises, and ultimately creating A & P Painting & Flooring—a company redefining the contracting experience through professionalism, family culture, and community focus.
What does it look like to build a business rooted in purpose, service, and joy? In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Rita Wilson, franchise owner of AlphaGraphics in Beaufort, South Carolina. Rita shares a remarkable journey — from her early career in marketing and the male-dominated newsroom of the 1980s, to directing the Miss Alabama pageant, to ultimately finding her calling as a franchise owner committed to community impact. In this heartfelt conversation, Rita opens up about: Navigating leadership as a woman in business when the rules weren't equal Why resilience and determination matter more than confidence alone How owning a business allows you to give back on your own terms What it truly means to build a legacy of joy Why purpose, people, and service matter more than titles or status This episode is a powerful reminder that success isn't just about profits — it's about how you show up, who you serve, and what people remember long after the work is done.
In this powerful episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, host Rebecca Monet sits down with Barb Volk and Doug Birer, dynamic partners behind multiple KidStrong locations and area development territories. Barb and Doug share their journey from early OrangeTheory Fitness expansion to building a mission-driven kids' fitness franchise focused on confidence, character, and physical development. Together, they unpack what it really takes to scale a business without losing sight of purpose—from mentoring leaders and building trust, to balancing profitability with real community impact. In this episode, you'll learn: Why mission matters when scaling a franchise How trust fuels strong partnerships and leadership development The difference between owner-operator and area developer mindsets What Barb calls work-life integration—and why it works How KidStrong is shaping confident, resilient kids (and future leaders) Whether you're a franchisor, franchisee, or purpose-driven entrepreneur, this conversation delivers insights on leadership, growth, and building something that truly lasts.
What if leadership meant bringing color, dignity, and humanity back into healthcare? In this powerful episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, host Rebecca Monet and co-host Tracy Kawa welcome Jeanette Weinz, Brand President of Executive Home Care. Jeanette shares her deeply personal journey into home care, the leadership lessons shaped by loss, and why empathy, advocacy, and human connection can never be replaced by technology. From growing Executive Home Care from 13 locations to nearly 100 nationwide, to redefining what quality care truly means, this conversation challenges conventional thinking about healthcare, franchising, and leadership. In this episode, you'll learn: Why home care is about dignity, not just services How purpose-driven leadership fuels sustainable growth The role compassion plays in franchise success Why technology should support—not replace—the human touch How leaders can inspire franchisees by leading with authenticity This is a must-watch episode for franchisors, franchisees, healthcare leaders, and anyone passionate about building people-centered businesses.
What happens when curiosity, purpose, and opportunity collide? In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, host Rebecca Monet and co-host Tracy Kawa sit down with Katie Dills, Brand President of The Cleaning Authority, to explore her remarkable journey from franchisee to executive leader. Katie shares how stepping in to help her mother-in-law sparked a passion for franchising—and ultimately led her to help guide a legacy brand with more than 250 territories nationwide. From learning the business in the field to shaping training programs, investing in people, and leading with purpose, Katie offers candid insights on what it truly takes to build a sustainable, people-first franchise system. In this conversation, you'll hear: How Katie transitioned from franchise ownership to brand leadership Why hiring and developing people is the foundation of franchise success The role curiosity and "what's possible" play in long-term growth How technology, culture, and leadership intersect in modern franchising Why legacy, mentorship, and purpose matter more than ever Whether you're a franchisor, franchisee, or aspiring business owner, this episode delivers inspiration and practical leadership wisdom you won't want to miss.
What if your exit strategy could protect your legacy, reward your employees, and still deliver strong financial returns? In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Matt Middendorp, entrepreneur, former banker, and ESOP expert, to unpack one of the most misunderstood—but powerful—succession strategies available to franchise owners and business leaders: Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs). Matt shares firsthand insight from every angle—as an ESOP employee, business owner, and advisor—explaining how ESOPs can outperform traditional exits like private equity while preserving company culture and community impact.
In this inspiring episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Alexa Centeno—entrepreneur, designer, and founder of VELLA HAUS, a national home staging franchise revolutionizing how homes are styled and sold. Alexa's journey is one of bold reinvention. With degrees in finance, accounting, and taxation, she left her corporate career to co-found a home automation business with her husband. Years later, a chance opportunity led her to home staging—and a new passion was born.
In this empowering episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Andrea Liebross—business growth coach, life integration strategist, best-selling author, and host of the She Thinks Big podcast. Andrea helps entrepreneurs move through the "messy middle" of business growth—the phase where progress feels hard, emotions run high, and uncertainty takes over. Through her Future You framework and TRUST model, she gives leaders the tools to think bigger, overcome self-doubt, and take massive action toward their next level of success.
In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Stephen Seidel—TEDx speaker, founder of The Seidel Agency, co-founder of Gents Journey, and champion of authentic storytelling. Stephen believes connection is currency, and today he shares how vulnerability, purpose, and personal story can transform leadership, strengthen communities, and elevate brands—especially in franchising. From losing his mother and rebuilding his life, to helping franchise companies create movements—not just marketing—Stephen's journey is a testament to resilience, alignment, and impact. In this episode, Stephen discusses: Why every leader has a story (even if they think they don't) How vulnerability builds trust, culture, and community The mindset shift from "validation seeking" to "purpose-driven impact" How connection shapes customer experience and franchise culture Tools leaders can use to spark deeper conversations and belonging The power of legacy: building beyond the business Stephen also shares his work with Gents Journey—a movement helping men become healthier, emotionally connected leaders—and the practical tools he created to facilitate meaningful conversations.
In this empowering episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Rachel Southard, CEO of ecomaids and Head of Brand Operations at Happinest Brands, to explore what it means to lead with empathy, adaptability, and strategy in a rapidly evolving franchise world. Rachel—recently named one of Franchise Dictionary Magazine's Women of Wonder 2024—shares insights from her 20+ years of experience growing and scaling franchise systems. From her early days in a fitness franchise daycare to leading multi-brand operations, she's seen every side of the franchising journey.
In this inspiring episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Tiffiny Consoli, the first-ever Pool Scouts franchisee, who made history by surpassing $3 million in annual revenue in 2024. Tiffiny shares her remarkable entrepreneurial journey — from launching a plantscaping business in her 20s to leading one of the most successful Pool Scouts franchises in the country. She opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped her confidence, the lessons learned from REI's leadership culture, and how authenticity and courage became her greatest business assets.
In this powerful episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Melanie Richards, founder and CEO of GoGlow—a pioneering sunless tanning and skincare franchise that's redefining clean beauty. Before building one of the fastest-growing beauty brands in the U.S., Melanie spent over a decade as a probation officer, working on domestic violence and stalking cases. Her life's mission—to protect, empower, and uplift women—has carried from the courtroom to the salon.
In this inspiring episode, Rebecca Monet sits down with Nuttha Goutier, the visionary behind Sabai Thai Spa, to explore what it truly means to scale a business without losing its soul. Born and raised in Thailand, Nuttha brings the spirit of Thai-inspired hospitality to North America—blending ancient healing traditions with modern franchise operations. She shares how Sabai Thai Spa began with a simple mission: to help people slow down, reconnect, and bring balance to their lives through mindfulness, kindness, and self-care. ✨ In this episode, you'll discover: How ancient Thai wellness principles inspired Sabai's brand and business model The meaning behind "Sabai Sabai" and how it reflects the Thai philosophy of peace and harmony The role of kindness and heart-centered leadership in building a successful franchise How cultural authenticity can be a strategic advantage in business Why self-care isn't a luxury—it's a way of life Whether you're a mission-driven founder, a franchisor seeking alignment, or simply someone who values purpose and well-being, this conversation will leave you inspired to lead—and live—with heart.
In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Rebecca Monet sits down with Rachel Wommack, a standout franchisee of A Place At Home in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Rachel shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Gallup, NM, to working in skilled nursing and case management, and ultimately launching her own franchise dedicated to providing compassionate care for seniors. She opens up about: Why she chose franchising over starting from scratch The support system that gave her the courage to launch her business How her grandmother's strength and joy continue to influence her leadership The challenges of balancing back-office tasks with caregiving responsibilities Building a culture of empathy, patience, and relationships within her team and community Rachel reminds us that elder care is more than a business—it's a calling. Her story highlights how persistence, compassion, and a supportive network can turn challenges into impact. #Franchising #SeniorCare #WomenInBusiness #Leadership #Podcast
What does it take to turn a passion project into a thriving franchise brand? In this episode of The Franchise Woman podcast, Rebecca Monet sits down with Jessi Brelsford, Founder & Chief Bud of Taste Buds Kitchen, to explore her journey from Harvard economics and Wall Street finance to leading a franchise that brings people together through the joy of cooking. Jessi shares: How a kid's cupcake party launched the Taste Buds Kitchen movement The role of data, intuition, and grit in her entrepreneurial journey Why kitchens are the heart of connection, creativity, and education Stories of franchisees who've transformed their lives and communities How Taste Buds Kitchen pivoted during COVID with viral virtual classes ✨ Taste Buds Kitchen is more than cooking—it's about creating memories.
In this episode of The Franchise Woman podcast, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa welcome marketing maven and thought leader Chantel Soumis—a dynamic force at the intersection of branding, leadership, AI, and community. Chantel brings bold ideas and practical wisdom to the table, sharing her journey from a creative childhood to becoming a sought-after speaker, branding strategist, and fractional CMO. With humor, heart, and infectious energy, she discusses: Why courage matters more than confidence How to build a strong personal brand (even if you're shy) The do's and don'ts of using AI for marketing Why franchisors should invest in employee-led content How she landed an interview with Matthew McConaughey during the pandemic What every business needs in an AI policy She also gives us a peek into her work with Stay in Your Lane and Train in Your Lane, and how she's helping brands scale sustainably through smart, scalable marketing systems. ✨ Don't miss this deep dive into the future of marketing and the heart of what makes a brand truly connect.
In this episode of The Franchise Woman podcast, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa welcome Jessica Fialkovich, founder of Exit Factor, bestselling author, and expert in business exit strategy. Jessica shares why selling a business is not just a transaction—it's a process that requires emotional readiness, financial preparation, and strategic planning. Drawing from her experience owning, operating, and selling multiple businesses, Jessica founded Exit Factor to help owners avoid common pitfalls and build companies that are ready for acquisition.
In this episode of The Franchise Woman podcast, host Rebecca Monet sits down with Allison Welch of As You Wish—a growing personal assistant franchise that is changing the way we think about help at home. From errands and holiday help to relocation and senior support, Allison shares how her vision and leadership are building something extraordinary. You'll hear how she: Delivers deeply personalized services with elegance and ease Systematizes bespoke tasks for franchisee success Builds relationships that go beyond the task list Is expanding nationally without losing core values Tune in to hear her leadership insights, franchise journey, and what's next for As You Wish.
In this episode of The Franchise Woman podcast, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Dida Clifton, U.S. Air Force veteran and founder of TheOfficeSquad®, to explore how military structure and servant leadership transformed her into a bold business owner—and now, a franchisor. Originally launched to provide trustworthy back-office support to small businesses, TheOfficeSquad® now offers a scalable franchise model that brings bookkeeping, admin, and payroll services under one unified system. Dida shares: How her military background shaped the systems and values behind TheOfficeSquad® Why she believes structure, transparency, and accountability are essential for business growth How her team provides full-scope, white-glove support that clients rave about What sets their franchise opportunity apart—especially for veterans Her “slow is smooth, smooth is fast” approach to scaling with integrity If you've ever felt overwhelmed by back-office chaos, Dida's mission-driven model and leadership style might be the solution you've been waiting for.
In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Natalie Black, CEO of Comfort Keepers, to explore her journey of resilience, leadership, and purpose-driven growth. Natalie opens up about: Her transition from finance to senior care franchising Why people—not products—are at the heart of Comfort Keepers The lessons she learned as a single mother that transformed her leadership style How diversity, inclusivity, and mentorship strengthen both people and profits The legacy she hopes to leave as a leader who prioritizes family and compassion Comfort Keepers isn't just about keeping seniors safe at home—it's about helping them live joyfully and with dignity.
What does it take to turn a store into a community movement? In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Johanna Bialkin, Founder & CEO of Aldea Home & Baby, a beloved San Francisco-based brand offering eco-conscious baby goods, curated home décor, and events that bring people together. Johanna opens up about: How her upbringing and family history shaped her entrepreneurial path Why Aldea is about connection over products Her decision to franchise Aldea and spread its “small village” model nationwide Lessons from the challenges of Covid and her journey toward embracing “I am enough” ✨ Whether you're an entrepreneur, franchisee, or simply someone who values community, this conversation will inspire you.
At just 16, Carl Comeaux began his journey as a personal trainer with a passion for changing lives. Today, as CEO of Crust Pizza Company, Carl leads with vision, resilience, and purpose. In this heartfelt interview with hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa, Carl shares: His path from fitness and tech ventures to leading a rapidly growing pizza brand How Crust Pizza creates community through memorable dining experiences The role of vision, leadership, and giving back in scaling to 250+ locations His family's powerful story of overcoming challenges, and how St. Jude inspires his mission to give more than he receives
What happens when passion for pets, grit through hard times, and the dream of family legacy collide? You get the remarkable story of Shannon and Ashley O'Dore of Aussie Pet Mobile Tucson. For 17 years, Shannon grew her mobile pet grooming business from one van to a multi-van operation—navigating economic downturns, flat tires, and even grooming pets herself when needed. Now, her daughter Ashley and son-in-law Rylan are stepping in to carry the business forward, infusing new ideas, technology, and their own vision for growth. In this episode, you'll learn:
What happens when you mix family, business, and a passion for making homes beautiful? You get Lori & Chad Morgan — the powerhouse mother-son team behind Kitchen Tune-Up Colorado Springs. In this heartwarming and insightful conversation with The Franchise Woman Podcast host Rebecca Monet, you'll hear how: Lori turned a layoff into a 30-year entrepreneurial journey Chad brought fresh vision and new opportunities to the business They navigated challenges, client heartbreaks, and major wins together Their shared mission to “serve well” has shaped their brand and legacy From Franchise of the Year honors to kitchens that change lives, this is a story about more than remodeling — it's about building trust, family bonds, and a business to be proud of.
In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, co-hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Brittney Lincoln—partner at Limitless Franchise Growth and founder of Females in Franchising. Brittney opens up about launching her first business in the aftermath of the 2008 recession, how she transitioned into franchising, and what inspired her to create a space just for women in the industry. With over 13 years of experience in both home services and brick-and-mortar franchises, Brittney shares invaluable insights into launching and scaling brands the right way. Key takeaways include: The real meaning of responsible franchising Common pitfalls emerging brands should avoid The power of mentorship, community, and connection How Females in Franchising is creating a space for women to grow, give, and get support
In this powerful episode of The Franchise Woman: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, we sit down with Mike Bahun, founder of Fundraising University. From overcoming poverty to coaching college baseball to building a national franchise, Mike shares how embracing struggle, focusing on the process, and fostering a growth mindset shaped his journey. Mike opens up about: ✅ How his early life fueled his passion for mentoring youth ✅ Why he believes struggle is essential for personal and business growth ✅ How Fundraising University helps students, teams, and franchisees develop life skills, confidence, and ownership ✅ The importance of mental skills vs. just sports psychology in both business and athletics ✅ His powerful message to entrepreneurs, parents, and leaders: Be good at the hard things. Whether you're a franchise leader, coach, parent, or entrepreneur, Mike's story will challenge you to rethink how you approach struggle and success.
In this candid and insightful episode of The Franchise Woman: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, Stephane Breault pulls no punches about what's holding many franchisors back—and how to fix it. With over two decades as a franchise CEO and another 15+ years coaching franchisors globally, Stephane knows the leadership pitfalls that can derail even the most promising franchise brands. In this episode, Stephane shares: ✔️ The #1 mistake franchisors make: seeing franchising as a transaction instead of a partnership ✔️ Why leadership (not management) is the key to scaling beyond 30 units ✔️ How to create rituals that build trust, connection, and culture ✔️ The leadership crisis that stops franchisors from scaling—and how to overcome it ✔️ How accountability must flow both ways to create empowered, high-performing franchisees Stephane also shares a powerful real-world case study from his client Poulet Rouge, a brand that transformed its growth by embracing these leadership principles—and now opens a new franchise nearly every week. Want to learn how to break the leadership ceiling in your franchise system? Don't miss this episode.
In this heartfelt episode of The Franchise Woman podcast, host Rebecca Monet and co-host Tracy Kawa sit down with Bonnie Lanyon and Carol Ann Hunter—two PuroClean franchisees who have built not only successful businesses but a decades-long friendship rooted in shared values, family, and faith in their franchising journey.
In this episode of The Franchise Woman podcast, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa welcome Brooke Wilson, multi-unit owner of Two Men and a Truck and founder of Two Men and a Junk Truck. Brooke shares: How she built a $20M+ business with nearly 300 employees The real challenges of launching a business as newlyweds Her leadership philosophy: every person brings value What drives her mission to help others find their worth Hilarious and heartwarming stories from over 20 years in the moving industry Whether you're a franchisor, franchisee, or simply someone who loves hearing powerful stories of growth and purpose—you'll love this episode.
In this heartfelt Father's Day episode, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Donna and Daniel Golik—co-founders of Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream—to talk about family, resilience, and building a $7M brand with purpose.
Join us for a powerful conversation with Dawn Kane, CEO of Hot Dish Advertising, as she shares her 30+ year journey from the skyscrapers of Manhattan to the heart of franchise marketing. What you'll learn: What franchisors should know before choosing a vendor or agency How due diligence and culture fit make or break a marketing partnership Why “agency” isn't just a title—it's a responsibility The role of B2E marketing in employee recruitment for franchisees How mentorship and connection fuel business (and personal) growth With warmth, wit, and wisdom, Dawn reflects on the lessons she's learned—and how she's helping brands grow stronger through strategy, integrity, and relationships. #FranchiseMarketing #HotDishAdvertising #FranchiseGrowth #WomenInFranchising #AgencyLeadership #TheFranchiseWomanPodcast
From the treatment room to the boardroom—this week's guest Kristi Levig shares her journey from waxing specialist to multi-unit Waxing the City franchise owner. You'll hear: ✔️ How she transitioned from manager to owner ✔️ What it's like to buy an existing studio vs. open one from scratch ✔️ The power of mentorship and building future franchisees ✔️ Why franchise support gave her the confidence to keep growing ✔️ How relationships—not money—drive her success Kristi's story is packed with optimism, grit, and inspiration for any woman considering entrepreneurship.
This week, we sit down with Loana Perez, founder and CEO of TeaCupFuls, to talk about how she turned a troubled past into a purpose-driven brand.
From condo property management to poolside entrepreneur, Carrie Waltman is one of only a handful of female franchise owners in the America's Swimming Pool Company system—and her story is all about resilience, relationships, and the power of heart-led leadership.
Join Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa as they sit down with Marcieli Pastorio, a visionary entrepreneur and CEO of Maha Juice Bar, a franchise redefining the juice bar industry with a focus on quality, kindness, and purpose. From her humble beginnings in the Amazon region of Brazil to building a successful franchise in the U.S., Marcieli's journey is one of faith, resilience, and servant leadership.
In this episode of The Franchise Woman podcast, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with the visionary entrepreneur Sophia Wastler, the founder of the Starz Program—a company dedicated to enriching children's lives through dance, sports, cheerleading, and fitness. But Sophia's mission doesn't stop there! The Starz Program also offers business ownership opportunities, empowering passionate individuals to build successful businesses while making a difference in their communities.
In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Danielle Wellings, the dynamic CEO of One Source Moving Solutions—a company redefining the moving experience with a compassionate, full-service approach. From growing up in a family business to building her own franchise empire, Danielle shares her incredible entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of franchising, and the deep emotional connections her company forms with the families they serve.
What would make a successful healthcare IT professional leave her career to start a concrete coatings franchise? The answer: purpose, happiness, and family. In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Krystal Greenhaw, the inspiring entrepreneur behind Wise Coatings Raleigh.
What happens when two sisters leave corporate America to start a business in a male-dominated industry? Success, resilience, and a powerful story! In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Brooke Yobo and Lindsay Keyser, the inspiring sister duo behind DRYmedic, a restoration franchise serving Southwest Florida.
The Advisory Board | Expert Franchising Advice for Franchise Leaders
The Advisory Board Podcast –The Exit Strategy Playbook with Pete BaldineWelcome back to another episode of The Advisory Board Podcast! As always, we bring in experts from the franchise community to provide real, actionable advice that helps you make meaningful changes in your franchise system. We're all about helping your units succeed today while also setting you up for a successful exit strategy down the road.This episode is proudly sponsored by ClientTether—a game-changer in franchise sales automation and customer engagement. Big thanks to them for supporting the show and helping franchise owners grow their businesses effectively!The Gray Tsunami: Franchising's Aging DemographicsIf you were with us at the Let's Grow event, you heard us buzzing about a big challenge in the industry—the Gray Tsunami. Every day, 1.2 million people in the U.S. turn 65, and about 35-40% of franchise owners fall into the Boomer category. This presents a huge opportunity—and challenge—for franchise systems as many longtime owners look to retire.That's why we brought in Pete Baldine, President of Moran Family of Brands, which operates Mr. Transmission, Milex Complete Auto Care, Turbo Tint, and Alta Mere Automotive Outfitters. Pete has spent decades in franchising, building proactive systems to help franchisees successfully transition out of their businesses.Longevity & The Exit DilemmaAt Moran Family of Brands, 33% of franchisees have been in the system for 20+ years, and 16% for 30+ years. While that longevity is impressive, it raises a crucial question: How do we help these owners exit successfully without shrinking the system?Pete shares how his team proactively plans for franchisee exits—instead of leaving owners to figure it out alone. By implementing a strong resale program, Moran helps franchisees exit on their terms, ensuring they maximize their equity and transition to the right buyer.Why Franchisors Need an Exit StrategyToo often, franchisors focus solely on new franchise sales, neglecting end-of-cycle support for existing owners. But failing to help franchisees exit properly can result in units closing, lost brand equity, and declining system strength. Pete's solution?Start the conversation early – Moran tracks franchisee renewal dates a year in advance and starts discussing exit strategies well before expiration.Understand valuations – Educating franchisees on how EBITDA multiples affect their business's worth and ensuring their P&Ls are in order well before selling.Facilitate strong buyer matches – Using tools like the SpotOn Profile from Rebecca Monet's Zoracle Profiles, Moran ensures incoming franchisees are aligned with the system's top performers.Assist in finding buyers – Rather than forcing franchisees to find their own buyers, Moran actively supports the process, preventing deals from falling through.What Happens If You Don't Plan?Franchisors who ignore exit strategies risk:Aging franchisees who hold onto territories but stop growing their businesses.Poor resale processes that lead to franchisees closing shop instead of selling.System-wide stagnation, as untapped markets sit underutilized.Pete shares a real-life win: A longtime Moran franchisee, hesitant to sell, was guided through the resale process and handed off his store to a new owner. The result? The new franchisee brought fresh energy, increased revenue by 30%, and is now looking to buy two more locations.Building the Culture of Exit PlanningAt Moran, exit strategy isn't an afterthought—it's discussed in Discovery Day! Franchisees enter the system knowing there's a roadmap for both success and exit. This gives them confidence that when the time comes, they have the franchisor's full support.Final TakeawaysFranchise success isn't just about getting in—it's about getting out the right way. If you're a franchisor, take a page from Moran's playbook and:Integrate exit planning early in the franchise lifecycle.Actively assist franchisees with valuations, buyer matchmaking, and financing strategies.Build a culture where successful exits are just as celebrated as successful launches.A huge thank you to Pete Baldine for sharing his wisdom! If you'd like to connect with Pete, you can email him at pbaldene@moranbrands.com or call 708-297-2240.And thanks again to ClientTether for sponsoring this episode! Be sure to subscribe and stay tuned for more expert insights that help you strengthen your franchise system. Until next time!