158 | Finding Purpose Through Franchising with Leigh Feldman

Leigh Feldman, CEO of Youth Franchise Brands, joins Rodric to share his journey from teacher and franchisee to leading a private equity group invested in youth-focused franchise concepts like Flower Power Studios and Young Chefs Academy.

With nearly two decades in franchising and experience across mergers, acquisitions, agency work, and education, Leigh has a unique perspective on what makes a great franchisee.

He explains the “maestro mindset” required to lead without playing every instrument, how to assess fit, flexibility, and finances, and why following the system (with a little room for local adaptation) is key to success.

Leigh also dispels the myth that you need “millions” to get started, breaking down entry costs and financing options, and closes with a powerful reflection on purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

If you’ve ever wondered whether franchising is your path, this episode is a masterclass!

Timestamps & Topics

• 00:00 – 02:35 Meet Leigh Feldman: teacher → franchisee → franchisor.
• 02:56 – 04:52 Building the dream team: sales, ops, COO, and franchise support.
• 05:17 – 08:29 What makes a good franchisee? The “maestro mindset.”
• 09:05 – 10:51 Flexibility vs. system: seasonality, pivots, and best practices.
• 11:23 – 14:09 Busting the “millions needed” myth: item 7, item 19, and financing options.
• 14:30 – 16:30 Purpose as a daily compass: Leigh’s guiding question.
• 17:03 – 17:41 How to explore Young Chefs Academy opportunities.
• 17:45 – 18:25 Rodric’s mantra: “The true cost of anything is the amount of life you exchange for it.”

Highlights

• Great franchisees are conductors, not soloists: lead the team, don’t play every instrument.
• Success = 90% system, 10% local adaptation.
• Entry costs are often under $400K; creative financing makes franchising accessible.
• “Don’t chase money alone—find joy and purpose in what you build.”
• Daily purpose check-in: What is today’s goal? Did I live it?

Pull Quotes

• “You don’t need to know how to play every instrument—you need to know how to lead the band.” —Leigh Feldman
• “Ninety percent follow the system, ten percent adapt for your market.” —Leigh Feldman
• “The true cost of anything is the amount of life you exchange for it.” —Rodric Lenhart
• “What one question should you ask daily? Do you understand your purpose?” —Leigh Feldman

Guest

Leigh Feldman — CEO of Youth Franchise Brands, overseeing investments in youth-focused franchise businesses like Young Chefs Academy and Flower Power Studios.

👉 Explore opportunities: youngchefsacademy.com

📩 Contact: [email protected]

📲Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leigh-feldman-39a2b4203/

Resources:

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