Franchise Today

What makes a franchise system durable enough to grow through recessions, COVID, supply-chain disruption and technological change?Kim Gubera believes it begins with relationships, strong foundations and franchise owners who are genuinely invested in their local businesses.This week on Franchise Today, Stan Friedman welcomes Kim Gubera, President and CEO of PIRTEK USA and Canada.Kim brings 26 years of franchise experience. Before joining PIRTEK in 2016, she spent 16 years helping U.S. Lawns grow from approximately 50 to 250 locations. She joined PIRTEK as corporate controller, advanced to CFO and vice president, and became CEO in January 2019.Today, she leads a system of more than 200 active franchises providing mobile hydraulic and industrial hose replacement. PIRTEK’s one-hour ETA service model helps customers minimize costly equipment downtime while combining the strength of a national organization with the commitment of locally owned operators. Stan and Kim discuss:• Why ambition and resilience matter more than a candidate’s résumé• The advantages of a true owner-operator franchise model• How technicians and employees can progress into franchise ownership• Why measured growth allows a franchisor to provide better support• What COVID and supply-chain disruption taught PIRTEK about adaptability• How AI may improve hose-life prediction and simplify access to thousands of parts• The evolving role of private equity in franchising• Why culture and values matter more than trying to predict the next ten yearsKim also shares the deeply personal franchisee stories that continue to inspire her—including an owner who used the business he built to repay his daughter’s student loans.This is a conversation about growth, but not growth at any cost. It is about building franchise relationships and operating foundations strong enough to endure whatever comes next.

What separates thriving franchise systems from those constantly battling conflict? According to Steve Whiteside, it isn't better contracts. It isn't more operations manuals. And it certainly isn't more rules. It's relationships.This week on Franchise Today, Stan Friedman welcomes Steve Whiteside—author of the bestselling book The Happy Franchisee, founder of the Franchise Leadership Center, and a former multi-unit franchisee who built seven successful career colleges after purchasing his first franchise in 1998.Steve's journey is remarkable. Labeled a "slow learner" as a child, he barely made it out of high school. He later discovered he had dyslexia and ADHD. He returned to university at age 40, earned both a Master's degree and a Ph.D., and devoted his research to one question:Why do some franchise relationships flourish while others fail?Together, Stan and Steve explore:Why the franchisor-franchisee relationship is the greatest predictor of long-term successHow trust—not blame—creates stronger franchise systemsThe ten biggest pain points franchisees face todayWhy leadership and people management outperform operational perfectionHow franchisees can move from simply surviving to becoming truly "happy franchisees"Why mentoring, accountability, and peer groups may be the industry's most underutilized growth toolsWhether you're a franchisor, franchisee, supplier, or aspiring owner, this conversation offers practical lessons on building stronger businesses by building stronger relationships.Because successful franchising isn't about choosing sides. It's about winning together.

What happens when franchisees become owners of the very brand they believed in? In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman welcomes Ashley Morris, CEO of Capriotti's Sandwich Shop, whose journey began not in the corporate office, but behind the counter as a Capriotti's franchisee.After experiencing the brand's potential firsthand, Ashley and his partners made the bold decision to acquire the entire company—closing the transaction on January 1, 2008, just as the global financial crisis was beginning to unfold.Most would have pulled back. Ashley doubled down. Rather than cutting corners, Capriotti's invested in product quality, franchisee support, and disciplined growth. That commitment transformed a beloved regional sandwich shop into one of the most respected brands in the QSR/fast casual franchise space, as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.In this conversation, you'll discover:Why becoming a franchisee first gave Ashley a fundamentally different perspective on leadership.How buying the company just before the Great Recession, shaped every decision that followed.Why protecting quality became Capriotti's greatest competitive advantage.The importance of franchisee trust, culture, and long-term thinking.What Ashley sees ahead for restaurant franchising, AI, and sustainable growth.This isn't simply the story of a sandwich brand. It's the story of franchisees who believed in a business enough to buy it—and then spent the next two decades proving they were right.

What happens when your first business collapses and leaves you deeply in debt? For Tom Spadea, it became the foundation for everything that followed.In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman welcomes Tom Spadea, co-founder of Spadea Lignana, one of franchising's most respected law firms.Tom's journey began in a family machine shop business before launching a radio transmitter manufacturing company with childhood friend Josh Lignana. When that business failed, Tom found himself searching for a new direction. That search led him through business brokerage, franchise sales, law school, and eventually to building a law firm that today includes fifteen attorneys and more than forty team members. In this conversation:• Why franchising is a 50X–100X growth strategy• The transition from operator to coach• Why franchise agreements should function like constitutions• The biggest mistakes emerging franchisors make• Private equity's impact on franchising• The importance of transparency and franchisee profitability• Why foundations matter before "the cement hardens"Tom also shares lessons from fourteen years of helping founder-led businesses scale through franchising and what he looks for in successful franchisor clients.Whether you're considering franchising your business or already building a franchise system, this episode is packed with practical wisdom.

What happens when a franchisor executive becomes a franchise operator? Everything changes. In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman welcomes Heather Leed Neary, President and CEO of Taco John's, for a candid conversation about franchising, restaurant leadership, labor challenges, operational simplicity, and what she learned after moving from corporate leadership into the franchisee world.Heather's journey began with what was supposed to be a temporary marketing position at Auntie Anne's. Instead, it launched a decades-long career in franchising that eventually led her to leadership roles at several iconic brands before becoming President and CEO of Taco John's.But perhaps her greatest leadership education came when she stepped into the franchisee side of the business.Managing more than 1,300 Taco Bell restaurants taught her lessons that many franchisors never fully appreciate. A $1,000 corporate mandate isn't just a $1,000 decision. Across a franchise system, it can become a six-figure expense for operators who live with the consequences every day.In this conversation:• Why simplicity beats complexity in restaurant operations• What COVID taught restaurant leaders about labor and flexibility• Creating pathways: from crew member to franchise owner• Maintaining hospitality in a digital-first world• The importance of community engagement and local leadership• Why successful franchisors must think like franchiseesHeather also shares her vision for the future of Taco John's and why operational excellence starts with understanding the economics of the people who make the business work every day.

Ask Adam Sutton, “what matters more, your number ofunits or the numbers that your units produce?" Hands down, he will tell you, "it's the latter."  In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman welcomesAdam Sutton, CEO of DX3 Brands and RNR Tire Express, for a conversation about servant leadership, franchise growth, multi-brand expansion and building, businesses that genuinely change lives.Adam's path into franchising wasn't linear. His journey included stints in broadcast media, filmmaking,creative agencies, technology marketing, and eventually returning to the family business founded by his father in 2000.Today, RNR Tire Express operates more than 213 stores across30 plus states and recently expanded into Canada. Through DX3 Brands, Adam is also building a multi-brand franchise platform, focused on complementary concepts that share common values around culture, customers and community.In this conversation, we discuss:• Why unit profitability matters more than unit count• How servant leadership drives franchise performance• Building a multi-brand platform without sacrificing culture• The "Serve, Not Service" philosophy inspired by Disney andChick-fil-A• Why franchisees should be valued by the strength of their relationships, not just their transactions• The power of community involvement and giving backAdam also shares lessons learned from building avalues-driven organization that donates millions annually, through community initiatives while maintaining strong franchise economics.If you're interested in franchise leadership, culture,growth and creating lasting impact, this conversation is worth a listen. 

What if the greatest threat to your franchise concept isn't competition...but irrelevance?In Part 2 of Stan Friedman's conversation with Batteries Plus Chief Development Officer Joe Malmuth, the discussion shifts from franchise development to franchise survival.Joe argues that many franchise systems are facing a future they aren't prepared for. As AI changes how consumers discover brands, traditional search declines, and franchise categories become increasingly crowded, differentiation is no longer just optional.It's survival.Joe introduces the concept of "Google Zero," where AI-driven discovery tools begin replacing traditional search engines and reshaping how customers find products, services, and franchise opportunities.He also explains why brands stuck at 25 to 50 locations often struggle to deliver on franchising's core promise of scale: purchasing power infrastructurebrand awarenessAlong the way, Joe shares: why being second or third in a category is increasingly dangerousWhat Seven Brew can teach the rest of franchisingHow Batteries Plus launched curbside pickup in just 24 hours during COVIDWhy small innovations often create outsized customer trustThree practical steps every franchisor should take regarding AI todayPart 1 of this conversation challenged conventional franchise development thinking, Part 2 challenges how franchisors prepare for the future itself.This is a discussion that every franchise executive should hear.

What happens when franchising keeps using playbooks written for a completely different generation?In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman welcomes Joe Malmuth, Chief Development Officer at Batteries Plus, for a fascinating conversation about AI, franchise development, generational change, and why the future of franchising belongs to brands willing to rethink it all. Joe’s path into franchising was anything but traditional. Before entering franchising, he worked as a firefighter, musician, and airplane parts salesperson Then, after discovering his entrepreneurial streak, he ultimately found his way into franchising and has never looked back. Since then, he has helped scale major franchise brands, including Stanton Optical, where he helped grow the system from 12 franchisees to more than 100 locations.Today at Batteries Plus, Joe is focused on modernizing franchise development while challenging outdated assumptions through his philosophy of “Franchise Rebellion.”In this episode, Joe and Stan discuss:Why traditional franchise playbooks may no longer workHow AI is transforming franchise development and candidate outreachWhy younger franchise investors think differentlyThe growing importance of differentiation in crowded marketsAnd why the speed of AI adoption is being dramatically underestimatedJoe also explains why the future of franchising will belong to brands that combine strong fundamentals with adaptability, innovation, and clear positioning.This is part one of a two-part conversation exploring where franchising is headed next.

What if your franchise system is already sitting on millions of dollars in hidden revenue… and you just haven’t unlocked it yet?In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman welcomes back David Owasi, CEO of Outreach Genius, for one of the most practical and eye-opening conversations yet about AI, franchise growth, and dormant lead recovery.Forget the hype.This conversation is about what AI can do right now for franchisors, franchisees, and home service operators willing to think differently.David reveals how brands are:Reviving thousands of dormant CRM leadsGenerating new business from permits data and realtor relationshipsUsing AI-powered outreach to increase engagement and conversionsAccelerating software development from idea to launch in days instead of monthsAnd creating scalable systems that save time while uncovering hidden revenue opportunitiesOne standout insight:Most businesses are obsessed with generating new leads while completely ignoring the goldmine already sitting inside their databases.David explains why AI isn’t replacing human strategy—it’s amplifying it.But there’s a catch:Bad thinking still produces bad outcomes.The businesses winning with AI are the ones combining automation with discipline, infrastructure, compliance, and clear strategic direction.Stan and David also discuss:AI-assisted coding and rapid prototypingMulti-channel outreach strategiesExit interviews and competitive intelligenceWhy “those who know more, grow more”And where franchising is headed as AI becomes mainstreamIf you’re a franchisor, supplier, entrepreneur, or franchise executive trying to separate real AI opportunities from empty noise, this episode delivers actionable insights you can use immediately.This isn’t theory... It’s the future of franchise growth, and the future is NOW!

What does it really take to build a franchise brand that scales?In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman sits down with Nick Vojnovic, CEO of Little Greek Fresh Grill, to explore the fundamentals of sustainable franchise growth.Nick brings a rare perspective to franchising—having worked as an operator, executive, and investor across multiple brands. That experience has shaped his belief that successful franchise systems are built on simplicity, strong unit economics, and disciplined execution.At Little Greek Fresh Grill, Nick is focused on creating a brand that franchisees can actually operate effectively—prioritizing consistency over complexity and long-term growth over rapid expansion.In this conversation, Nick shares:What separates scalable franchise brands from those that stallWhy simplicity is a competitive advantage in franchisingThe importance of unit-level profitabilityHow operator experience influences leadership decisionsWhat he looks for in successful franchiseesWhether you’re a franchisor, franchisee, or just beginning to explore franchising, this episode offers practical insights into building a system designed to last.

In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman sits down with Jeff Helfgott, CEO of Boardroom Salon for Men, to explore a leadership philosophy grounded in integrity, partnership, and disciplined growth.Jeff’s journey into franchising wasn’t planned. From ROTC to an MBA and a career at McKinsey, he found his way into the industry through Planet Fitness—first as a franchisee, then on the franchisor side. That rare dual perspective shaped his belief that franchising only works when both sides succeed.Today, at Boardroom Salon for Men, Jeff is putting that philosophy into practice. The brand is experiencing double-digit revenue growth and a 47% increase in new client traffic—while maintaining something almost unheard of in franchising: no locations operating at a loss.In this conversation, Jeff shares:Why so many franchise systems fail at the unit levelThe importance of franchisor-franchisee alignmentA defining moment where integrity built a lasting competitor relationshipWhy he reversed a rebrand to return to the company’s core identityHow “How can we help you?” became his operating philosophyThis episode is shines a light on building a franchise system that prioritizes people, profitability, and long-term success over rapid expansion.If you’re a franchisor, franchisee, or considering entering the space, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

What does it take to build a franchise brand from scratch—and what does it feel like to be part of that journey?In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman sits down with Matt Friedman, founder of Wing Zone, for a deeply personal and insightful conversation.Stan shares his own connection to the brand—having spent four of the most meaningful years of his career as a partner in Wing Zone—before diving into Matt’s 27-year journey building the company from a $500 college startup into a nationally recognized franchise.Together, they explore the realities of franchising, the importance of franchisee support, the power of long-term partnerships, and the lessons learned through growth, adversity, and eventual exit.This is more than a franchise story—it’s a shared journey of entrepreneurship, partnership, and legacy.

What does it really take to scale a franchise system without losing control? In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman speaks with Michael Haith, CEO of Teriyaki Madness, about building a franchise brand through discipline, infrastructure, and relentless execution.From his early days as a franchisee to helping grow Maui Waui to hundreds of units, and ultimately acquiring Teriyaki Madness in 2016, Michael shares hard-earned lessons about scaling responsibly. He explains why hiring ahead of growth is essential, how strong systems prevent operational breakdowns, and why chasing trends often leads franchisors in the wrong direction.The conversation also explores the role of AI in franchising, including how predictive analytics and real-time data are helping franchisees improve performance and make better decisions.For franchisors and operators alike, this episode offers a clear message: there are no shortcuts to sustainable growth, or sensible franchising.

The pet services industry continues to experience strong growth, driven by consumers who increasingly view pets as members of the family. In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman speaks with Ricardo Azevedo, CEO of Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming, about building a franchise brand in one of the most resilient and relationship-driven sectors in franchising.Ricardo shares how Woof Gang has evolved from a boutique pet retail concept into a national franchise platform, combining grooming services, premium pet products, and community-focused experiences. He discusses the importance of unit-level economics, franchisee support, and maintaining brand consistency across a growing network.The conversation also explores broader industry trends, including consumer spending behavior in pet care, the importance of service differentiation, and how franchise systems can create lasting customer loyalty.For franchisors, franchisees, and anyone interested in the future of pet services, this episode offers valuable insights into building a scalable and sustainable franchise brand.

After nearly four decades in the automotive aftermarket industry, Thomas A. Wolfe understands what it takes to keep a legacy brand relevant. Now, President and CEO of Ziebart International, Wolfe’s journey began in 1986 working in the Ziebart mailroom and working in the warehouse while attending college — a humble start that ultimately evolved into leading one of the most recognized automotive service franchise brands in the world.In this episode, Wolfe shares how Ziebart reinvented itself through a pivotal “Change or Die” strategy, returning to its rust-protection roots while expanding into high-value premium services like ceramic coatings, paint protection film, detailing, and window tinting. Today, the company operates approximately 400 locations across more than 35 countries, with a particularly strong presence in markets like Turkey.Wolfe explains how global franchise growth depends on deeply personal relationships, noting his commitment to visiting International master franchisees regularly to understand local challenges firsthand. He also discusses balancing the needs of multiple customer groups — franchisees, licensees, and automotive dealership partners — while maintaining a clear focus on long-term brand relevance.From leadership philosophy to global strategy, this conversation offers valuable insights into sustaining a legacy franchise system in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

What happens when a franchise system stalls — and how do you get it moving again? In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman speaks with Mike Mushinski, President of Garage Experts. Mike joined the brand in 2024 to rebuild operations and restore momentum to a growing garage flooring and storage franchise.Mike shares why most franchise problems originate in recruitment rather than operations, how setting clear expectations solves many system challenges, and why franchising is fundamentally a relationship-driven business.The conversation also explores the growth potential in garage organization, the advantages of a vertically integrated supply chain, and how home services brands are adapting to changing economic conditions.

How do you build not one — but multiple — successful fitness franchise brands? In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman speaks with Stephen P. Smith, Founder and CEO of Planet Beach and HOTWORX.Stephen shares how his journey began in independent gym ownership and evolved into launching Planet Beach in 1996, and scaling to 500 locations by year six. He explains how a pivotal conversation in Jamaica in 2014 led to the creation of HOTWORX — an infrared fitness concept combining heat, exercise, and technology in what he calls “3D training.”The conversation explores franchisee profitability, disciplined marketing, a single-unit operator focus, and why 90% of HOTWORX franchisees were customers first.This episode is all about sustainable growth, sensible franchising, coaching, and building brands through execution — not vanity metrics.

What does it take to lead a category-defining franchise in a cyclical industry? In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman sits down with Charles Furlough, President & CEO of Pillar To Post Home Inspectors. Charles shares how the brand continues to grow by focusing on franchisee performance, operational excellence, and a differentiated customer experience.The conversation explores scaling in the home services sector, navigating real estate market cycles, and why strong unit economics and franchisee support are the cornerstones of long-term system success.

What happens when a franchisor prioritizes franchisee survival over growth—and comes out stronger on the other side?In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman sits down with Neal Courtney, CEO of Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids and Snip-Its, to explore a franchising journey shaped by operational discipline, franchise ownership experience, and crisis leadership.Neal shares how a casual recommendation from a neighbor led he and his wife Alexis into franchise ownership, and eventually into acquiring and leading the Cookie Cutters brand. Under Neal’s leadership, the system expanded from 25 locations to over 110, selling 370 franchise agreements with a 94% conversion rate between 2016 and 2019.When COVID-19 hit, Neil halted development, and focused instead on weekly franchisee communication, negotiated rent relief, and helped owners secure PPP and EIDL funding. The result: stronger relationships and average unit volumes nearly 30% higher than pre-pandemic levels.This conversation covers franchise growth strategy, unit level economics, crisis leadership, founder-led culture, and why franchisors must take responsibility for creating scalable models that actually work.

From a college painting business to a multi-brand franchise empire with more than 1,100 locations—this episode of Franchise Today dives deep into the entrepreneurial journey of Paul Flick, founder and CEO of Premium Service Brands and Extraordinary Brands.Paul’s story began nearly 40 years ago with Student Painters in Canada, followed by a brief corporate stint at Coca-Cola. In 2005, he launched 360 Painting in Northern Virginia—and franchised it, a little less than 2 years later. What followed was rapid growth, a near-financial wipe out during the Great Recession, and a long-term vision that never wavered.That vision? Serving single-family homeowners across multiple complementary services. Paul explains how “brand stacking”—where franchisees own several aligned brands in the same territory—dramatically improves unit level economics. One franchise partner grew from $1.5 million to nearly $6 million in revenue, by leveraging existing customer relationships, reducing acquisition costs, and increasing lifetime value of the customer.This conversation explores how recession-resistant services like garage doors helped stabilize the portfolio during economic downturns, and how shared infrastructure—finance, marketing, training, and an in-house call center—allowed Premium Service Brands to scale efficiently while maintaining quality. Today, the organization adds 100–120 new franchise partners annually across under served markets in the U.S. and Canada.Paul also addresses why the $600+ billion home services sector remains resilient: homeowners are staying put and investing in their homes rather than moving, driving predictable demand even in uncertain times.Beyond business, Paul shares his deeply personal motivation behind Kids Lift, a community-impact initiative inspired by his daughter Anne. The program empowers franchisees to give back locally, reinforcing the belief that purpose and profitability can—and should—grow together.This episode delivers a masterclass in resilience, strategic growth, and building franchise systems that scale without losing soul.

What happens when you ignore everything that industry tells you to do—and it works?On this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman sits down with Alex Filipuk, Founder and CEO of Ideal Siding, to unpack one of the most unconventional and successful franchise models in home services today.Alex’s journey into franchising began unexpectedly—with a college assignment at age 23 and early work experience as a Subway Sandwich Artist. After building several businesses, including a lead generation company, he set out to create Ideal Siding around 2017–2018, as an owned and operated business. Following a conversation with Canadian franchise icon, Brian Scudamore, Alex pivoted to franchising, as his growth model of choice, against the advice of many. Here’s the twist: Alex refuses to recruit contractors as franchisees. Instead, Ideal Siding targets coachable professionals from finance, tech, and academia—people who hire experienced crews rather than trying to do the work themselves. The result? A franchise system that defied industry skepticism and now averages $950,000 in first-year revenue and $232,000 in owner discretionary profit across more than 90 operating units.Launched during the COVID lock-downs, Ideal Siding grew through culture, discipline, and a relentless focus on franchisee profitability—not unit count.This is a conversation about people, systems, and why the future of franchising belongs to those willing to break barriers to entry, thoughtfully.

Success in franchising takes more than financial expertise — it takes relationships. In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman sits down with Jessica Wescott, CEO of Stellar Service Brands, to explore her unexpected journey from private wealth management to leading some 200+ franchise locations across Stellar's home service brands.Jessica entered franchising twelve years ago believing she could focus solely on analytics and avoid the relationship side of the business. That assumption didn’t last long. Starting at Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes, she split her time between finance and franchise development before rising to VP. She later joined Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, helping grow the brand from 100 to 150 locations as COO.In October 2024, Jessica was promoted to CEO of Stellar Service Brands, overseeing Restoration 1 and Bluefrog Plumbing, across approximately 350 territories. Her focus is clear: franchisee profitability, disciplined growth, and community-based relationships.She dishes on it all, this week, on Franchise Today.

What if the best franchise systems aren’t planned—butdiscovered? In this episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedmansits down with Shane Evans, CEO of Heights Wellness Retreats, to explore how an unplanned franchise journey turned into a 120+ unit wellness brand built on organic demand, adaptability, and resilience.Shane opened the first Massage Heights location in 2004 withno intention of franchising. But customers quickly began asking for more locations—and investment opportunities. By 2006, franchising wasn’t a strategy; it was a response to demand.Through the 2008 financial crisis and COVID-19, Shane andher team continuously evolved the model—reworking memberships, expanding services, and eventually rebranding into Heights Wellness Retreats. Today, the brand blends massage and skincare with touchless wellness technologies, like cryotherapy, red light therapy, and sauna experiences. Shane explains how together, AI and wellness two of the fastest-growing sectors globally, have enabled her to utilize technology to enhance—notreplace—human service, and what modern franchisees must understand about capital, culture, and consumer experience.This episode offers a masterclass in listening beforescaling—and building a franchise system that lasts.

Franchise Today did not begin as a polished podcast… farfrom it.   — it began as a live radio show in the middleof the Great Recession of 2009.In this special episode, Paul Segreto and Stan Friedmanlook back on the early days of Franchise Today, one of, if not the very first podcasts dedicated to franchising. From guests broadcasting live from their cars during federalbuilding lockdowns, to last-minute cancellations that mysteriously seemed to occur around Wednesdays at noon Eastern, (our weekly "go-live" time, for new episodes to drop. To say the show was built amid constant chaos, would be an understatement.  Yet through technical failures, live-showpressure, and industry upheaval, Franchise Today evolved into the a trusted platform that it is today: covering franchising, finance, legal issues, and entrepreneurship.Paul also shares how more than 40 years in franchising and2,600+ published articles  have shaped his mission today through "Accelerate Success America" — helpingentrepreneurs understand the fundamentals franchising often fails to teach, including P&L management, business ownership realities, and franchisee wellbeing.This conversation also explores why franchising mustprioritize education, community engagement, and continuous customer experience — and why kindness, empathy, and mental health matter more than ever on today’sfranchise landscape. Paul Segreto, this week on Franchise Today.

What happens when two veteran franchisors look at the industry and realize that one of the biggest challenges of all at the unit level - is driving local traffic!You get Sweet Influencers, a first-of-its-kind platform built by Angela Olea and Liberty Bernal, designed specifically to connect franchise systems with vetted nano and micro influencers, who move the needle at the local level.Angela spent decades in senior care, scaling her brand Assisted Living Locators to 166 franchises before selling to private equity in 2024. Liberty entered franchising straight out of high school, later founding Liberty Fitness, manufacturing proprietary equipment, and attracting private equity at age 24. Together, they bring forty years of hands-on franchising experience—and a shared understanding of the traffic challenge facing every brand.In this episode, they break down why influencer marketing is the modern equivalent of early digital marketing: underpriced, underutilized, and massively effective when done correctly. They explain why local creators outperform large influencers, how AI can streamline brand–creator matching, and why real-time campaign oversight matters for protecting franchise brands.Sweet Influencers offers accessible pricing for single-unit operators and multi-unit groups alike, along with a soon-to-launch platform featuring AI-driven tools, brand protection safeguards, campaign approvals, and a free ROI calculator.If you want to understand the future of franchise marketing—and how authentic, localized influence can transform unit-level economics—this episode is for you.

After years in recruiting, franchise development, and lead generation, Dan Claps sold his company to build something else, on his own. That decision became the foundation for VODA Cleaning & Restoration — but the company nearly collapsed after launch.In this episode, Dan shares the gritty truth behind VODA'S early struggles: high monthly losses, a failing model, and the moment he realized that defending his ideas was sinking the business. Everything changed when he started listening — really listening — to franchise candidates and early operators. Their feedback reshaped the model and sparked explosive system-wide growth.Today, VODA has 107 franchises across 260 territories in 32 states, backed by a dual-revenue model (carpet leaning + restoration,) a 24/7 national call center, and more than 9,000 five-star reviews. Dan explains how transparency, principle-centered leadership, weekly communication rhythms, and culture-first decision-making became VODA'S real competitive advantages.This episode is a masterclass in humility, resilience,and building a franchise system that wins by putting franchisees first.

After 41 years in hospitality and franchising, Paul Damico has seen it all — scaling restaurant brands through explosive growth, navigating economic downturns, selling companies for a combined $90 million, and now revitalizing two iconic, 60-year-old legacy brands: Perkins and Huddle House.In this episode, Paul sits down with Stan Friedman to share how his career began at Marriott in 1986 before co-founding a 102-unit restaurant portfolio, leading Moe’s Southwest Grill from 160 to 700+ locations, and overseeing more than 5,000 restaurants at Focus Brands.Now, as CEO of Ascent Hospitality Management, Paul is rebuilding two classic American brands through a back-to-basics approach — deep franchisee engagement, stronger leadership recruitment, operational discipline, and a renewed focus on loyalty over acquisition.Paul explains today’s biggest shift in restaurant behavior: diners aren’t trading down… they’re disappearing. With fast food no longer a clear value play, he reveals how casual dining may actually reclaim value leadership in the coming years.He also outlines what he looks for in franchise partners: substantial liquidity, meaningful net worth, portfolio experience, and the ability to open a minimum of five units within three years.If you want to understand legacy brand turnarounds, strategic franchising, or the next era of restaurant growth — this episode is for you.

Nick Lopez left Colorado as a wide-eyed first-generation college student, to work on a BS in Business Marketing at Michigan State. His plan was to "walk on" to the wrestling team, which would ultimately pay for the cost of tuition and living.The reality was that a scholarship was a couple of years away, so Nick made the tough decision to hang up his wrestling boots for an entrepreneurial endeavor, in order to support the cost of his education.At the age of 19, Nick founded his painting  company and every summer thereafter, he painted homes to help pay for tuition, books, and cost of living. By doing so, Nick developed a real passion and love for the craft of home improvement. In his third year as the owner of the company, the “light bulb” went off. Nick realized that those years of painting didn’t have to be his last, and that a future in the home improvement industry made sense. From that point forward, Nick focused on building a business that would set the standard for excellence in painting and home improvement.He's here today, to tell us all about it.

What separates a successful franchise exit from a costly one?In this week’s episode of Franchise Today, Stan Friedman sits down with Patrick Galeher, Founder, CEO and Managing Partner of Boxwood Partners, one of the leading M&A advisory firms focused on franchising and multi-unit brands.Patrick has lived every side of the franchise world — franchisor, franchisee and supplier — giving him a 360-degree perspective few deal-makers ever have. Before founding Boxwood, he scaled Sweet Frog from 15 to 350 locations before selling to MTY Kahala in 2018. Since then, Boxwood has guided powerhouse brands such as Stretch Zone, AdvantaClean and The Lash Lounge through successful liquidity events.Patrick reveals how alignment, not just valuation multiples, creates lasting value — and why the best M&A advisors start by deeply understanding their clients before ever calling a buyer. He explains how franchise M&A differs from typical middle-market deals, what investors really look for, and how founders can prepare years in advance for a strong exit.Whether you’re a franchisor, franchisee or private-equity partner, this conversation delivers a masterclass in how to build, buy and sell brands the right way.

What happens when two brothers nearly lose everything—only to discover they were accidentally building a franchise model the entire time?In this Encore episode, host Stan Friedman sits down with Ryan Parsons, CEO of Evive Brands and co-founder of The Brothers That Just Do Gutters. What started as a small family-owned gutter business nearly went bankrupt during the 2007–2008 recession, after diversifying into general construction. But that crisis forced a pivotal realization: their true success lay in focusing on what they did best—gutters.By embracing the “riches are in the niches” philosophy, they built systems, processes, and a customer experience so strong that clients assumed they were already a franchise. That assumption sparked the birth of what is now one of the fastest-growing home services franchise brands in America, with over 300 territories.Ryan shares how turning down early private equity offers led to even greater opportunities—including becoming CEO of an entire portfolio of brands under the Evive platform. He also reveals why brilliant basics—answering the phone, showing up on time, wearing professional uniforms—are still the ultimate differentiator in franchising today.👉 If you want to hear how near-failure can become the foundation of franchise greatness, this episode is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and strategic focus.

What happens when a journalism graduate with no franchiseexperience gets assigned a PR client that changes her entire professional destiny? That’s exactly what happened to Monica Feid, co-founder and COO of Thunderly Marketing, Advertising and PR. What started as a random PRassignment to the Dwyer Group in 1996 became the beginning of a decades-long career shaping some of franchising’s most recognized brands.In this episode, Monica joins host Stan Friedman toshare how franchising “found her,” how her partner's vision transformed BizCom Associates into Thunderly, and why AI is transforming franchise marketing faster than mostbrands are ready to handle. She explains the shift from SEO to GEO—Generative Engine Optimization—and why brands must rethink how they show up in AI-driven search results.You’ll also hear why 56% of website leads receive zerofollow-up, how remote work and global talent have reshaped agency growth, and why younger, highly educated entrepreneurs are now entering franchising to control their destinies.👉 If you want to understand the next evolution of franchise development, digital marketing, AI, and the power of serendipity in career-building, you won’t want to miss thisconversation.

"This week, Shelly Sun Berkowitz, founder ofBrightStarCare, joins host Stan Friedman for a deeply personal and inspiring conversation about the intersection of franchising, family, and female entrepreneurship. Shelly’s journey was born out of her personal need to find care for her grandmother. Shelly’s decision to expand BrightStar through franchising came later though, and began with a spark — watching her mother-in-law invest in a Choice Hotels franchise.  The passion to help families with care andthe franchise spark ignited a career that would lead to one of the most respected senior care brands in America. But during COVID, she found herself working 20-hour days while caring for her autistic son, Luc. It was a breaking point that led to her decision to sell BrightStar and prioritize family — but also lead her to her next great purpose.  Today, through Founder to Founder and Next Phase Capital, Shelly mentors entrepreneurs and provides “patient capital” for founders scaling and exiting on their own terms. She’s also tackling the harsh truth that only 1.9% of women-owned businesses ever reach $1 million in revenue, helping women founders overcome systemic barriers to funding and confidence. 👉 Listen now to hear Shelly’s hard-earned wisdom on balancing ambition with authenticity — and building businesses that honor both profit and purpose.This episode is dedicated to the memory of Bill Chaffee and his undying effort to promote initiatives to assure the furtherance of success, for women in C-Suites of franchising." 

What happens when a hurricane changes your entire life philosophy? For Jeff Dudan, a late-night drive home from Hurricane Katrina relief became the turning point that transformed him from a traveling restoration contractor into a franchise empire builder.Starting with a college painting business and pivoting into restoration after Hurricane Andrew, Jeff launched Advanta Clean in 1994. By 2005, he realized franchising could give him the balance and scalability he needed. But success didn’t come overnight—he admits to early failures rooted in ego, until he embraced the franchise community and hired experienced professionals in 2008.Today, as CEO and founder of Homefront Brands, Jeff leads a diverse portfolio that has grown to 230+ franchise owners across nearly 800 territories in just 30 months. Brands like Temporary Wall Systems, Window Hero, Top Rail Fence, Designery, and Roof Scientist all share one thing in common: the CARES values system that drives culture, leadership, and results.In this conversation with host Stan Friedman, Jeff shares:How personal tragedy became the catalyst for his franchising journeyLessons from scaling multiple brands at record speedWhy values-based leadership outperforms micromanagementHis outlook on franchising as America’s greatest wealth creation engine👉 Listen now to hear how Jeff Dudan builds empires rooted in values, vision, and servant leadership.

After five years as Chief Development Officer at Another Broken Egg, Jeff Sturgis is making another bold pivot—returning to independent consulting.In this conversation with host Stan Friedman, Jeff reflects on three decades in franchising, from his unexpected entry after leaving professional sports to senior leadership roles at Coldwell Banker, U.S. Franchise Systems, Focus Brands, Fantastic Sam’s, McAllister’s Deli, Fazoli’s, and Another Broken Egg.Jeff’s story is one of adaptability, resilience, and relationships. He shares how chance encounters and career setbacks became springboards to new opportunities, why awarding franchises (not just selling them) remains his guiding principle, and where he sees opportunities for brands in today’s challenging market.Whether you’re an emerging franchisor scaling from 20 units or a mature brand navigating growth hurdles, Jeff’s insights into development, strategy, and market dynamics are invaluable.👉 Listen now to hear how one of franchising’s most seasoned leaders continues to shape the future of the industry.

From exile at 17 to CEO of a billion-dollar franchise platform. Shirin Bezhadi’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and remarkable leadership. Hear how she scaled Budget Blinds/Home Franchise Concepts, survived a brain tumor, and turned adversity into her greatest advantage.📌 Key TakeawaysExile and hardship can fuel resilience and leadership ambition.Fractional CFO work can shape company growth and PE exits.Health crises sharpen clarity and leadership priorities.Scaling a franchise requires iterative testing, discipline, and creativity.Private equity exits demand operational maturity and cultural reinvention.She’s now sharing the playbook in her soon to be released book, “The Unexpected CEO: My Journey from Gas Station Cashier to Billion-Dollar CEO” (on sale Oct. 28).  https://shirinbehzadi.com/book/

Carlos Hesano is the brand President of Authority Brands DRYmedic Restoration Services, a company that steps in…  when life takes unexpected turns. Whether it’s water, fire, storm, or mold damage, DRYmedic is there 24/7 to helpfamilies and businesses recover, rebuild, and reclaim their lives. And, they’re not just about restoring properties — they’re about restoring peace of mind. In this episode, you’ll hear how their approach to those that they serve, is more like what you’d expect from a 5 star restaurant or hotel.  Over the years, Carlos has evolved into a powerful voice and leader in franchising, guiding others toward building wealth, independence, and community impact through franchise ownership.

This week we welcome Mike Bahun, founder and CEO of Fundraising University. His journey into fundraising and franchising began as a high school coach, igniting his passion for enhancing resources for schools in need. Mike shares his vision to revolutionize fundraising through a service-based model that prioritizes the needs of students, teachers, and coaches. Discover how he shifted traditional fundraising approaches towards effective digital solutions, providing schools with the means to raise funds efficiently.The episode also examines how the pandemic reshaped their franchise model. With a focus on adaptability and strong operational frameworks, Mike reveals how they transitioned from an owner-operator to a semi-absentee model while retaining strong community ties.Join us as we explore how Mike's innovative strategies not only alleviate the burden on coaches but also ensure significant funds for underfunded organizations.Have you experienced challenges with school fundraising? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

“Welcome back to Franchise Today! I’m your host, Stan Friedman, and this week we’re exploring how AI is changing the game for franchising. My guest is David Owasi, co-founder of Outreach Genius, who has taken his experience as both a franchise owner and software engineer to tackle one of franchising’s biggest challenges: missed calls and lost opportunities.From his journey from Nigeria to Canada, to building tools that help home service businesses land contracts worth six figures, David shows us how combining artificial intelligence with emotional intelligence can create powerful customer experiences. You don’t want to miss this one.”

In this episode of Franchise Today, host Stan Friedmanwelcomes Bob Gappa, founder of Management 2000 and one of franchising’s most respected voices. Bob’s journey began in the middle of a recession with an unconventional move — offering free consulting — which soon grew into adecades-long career guiding some of the world’s most successful franchise brands.From navigating economic downturns to anticipating industry shifts, Bob shares timeless lessons and candid insights that every franchise professional needs to hear. Whether you’re new to franchising or a seasonedleader, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

In this powerful episode of Franchise Today, host Stan Friedman welcomes Stéphane Breault, a very highly respected leadership coach and award-winning figure in Canada’s franchise community. What began as a spark during an MBA lecture in 1983 has since evolved into a decades-longmission: helping franchise leaders build better businesses by becoming better leaders.Stephane takes us through his personal and professionalevolution—from corporate executive to author, consultant, and ultimately, sought-after executive coach. He opens up about the challenges of managing growth, making tough personnel decisions, and surviving economic downturns.Packed with practical wisdom and real-world experience,this episode offers valuable insights for franchise founders, executives, and anyone navigating the complexities of leadership in the franchise world.

This week, we hear from Chris and Andrew McCuiston, two of the dynamic leaders behind Goldfish Swim School, as they share their remarkable journey from a single swim school in Birmingham, Michigan, to a thriving franchise with nearly 200 locations across North America. What began as a spontaneous entrepreneurial leap, evolved into a national brand rooted in safety, trust, and memorable customer experiences. The McCuiston brothers reveal how franchising found them,the importance of building strong franchisee relationships, and the operational pivots that helped them navigate the challenges of COVID-19 and come out stronger still, on the other side. From expanding into Canada to strategicallytargeting growth in California and Florida, they share insights on creating a company culture that prioritizes safety, facility excellence, and community engagement.No matter your point on the franchise compass, there is rich take home value in this conversation, applicable to anyone involved in franchising.  This episode delivers lessons on resilience, adaptability, and staying true to your core values.

In this episode of Franchise Today, host Stan Friedmanwelcomes Bobby Lloyd, CEO of Magnolia Bakery, and Jason Mattes, VP of Domestic Franchise Development & Sales. Together, they unpack the remarkable transformation of a charming NYC bakery—immortalized by pop culture—into abeloved global franchise brand.Hear how Magnolia’s fame exploded from media appearances rather than traditional marketing, and discover the strategic thinking behind their international expansion into places like Dubai and India. Jason shares his personal journey from professional sports to franchise development, offering candid reflections on adaptability, planning, and scaling with intention. Whether you're an aspiring franchisee or a seasoned pro,this episode offers invaluable lessons in branding, infrastructure readiness, and leading with authenticity.

In this insightful episode of Franchise Today, Tony Zaccario, President & CEO of Stretch Zone, shares his extraordinary rise from 22-year-old General Manager to the leader of a 400-location wellness brand. Tony opens up about his unplanned entrance into franchising, the early lessons from licensing missteps, and the critical pivot to training and supporting franchisees for sustainable growth and success.Tony emphasizes the power of transparency, mentorship, and sound unit-level economics in building a scalable and resilient franchise system. He recounts navigating the pandemic with steady communication and shares how Stretch Zone’s partnership with Princeton Equity Group and industry leaders like Drew Brees has positioned the brand for global growth.From exploring B2B revenue streams and national accounts to addressing joint employment concerns and franchise education, Tony provides a masterclass in visionary yet practical franchise leadership.

Barb Moran planned to be an artist, but life had other ideas. She faced other challenges including being fired from her family’s business by her father and suffering a traumatic brain injury, but she turned these setbacks into stepping stones. Today, Barb is the CEO of the Moran Family of Brands, parent company to six automotive-related franchise brands: Mr. Transmission, Milex Complete Auto Care, Turbo Tint, AltaMere, Multistate Transmissions, and Dr. Nick's Transmissions.  And... oh, by the way, this is the very company that she wasfired from, back in the day.  Today, Barb and the Moran Family of Brands are award-winning, well-respected members of the (IFA) International Franchise Association and the broader franchise community.   Some takeaways from the interview:  •      Embrace Change: When life forces you off your current path, look at it as a chance to pivot instead of it being an obstacle. Embracing change is often the key to unlockinghidden opportunities. •      Perseverance Pays Off: Use setbacks to fuel your determination and push through. Especially in business. Persistence will set you apart. •      The Power of Self-Belief: The journey from self-doubt to self-belief can be hard, but it’s also rewarding. By trusting in your ability, you’ll achieve the confidence you need to lead and thrive.

What do you get when you mix structural engineering, with immigrant grit, a viral video, and a love for Hawaiian poke? What you get is the recipe for one of the most exciting fast-casual franchise stories of the past decade.This week on Franchise Today, Stan Friedman welcomes Peter Yang, co-founder and managing partner of Pokeworks—a premium poke concept that exploded out of a 750-square-foot shop in Midtown Manhattan and quickly became a national sensation.Peter shares how:Pokeworks went from unknown to viral, thanks to a burrito and a million online views an hourA family legacy in food and a pivot from engineering set the foundationThey use EOS and AI to drive operational consistency and franchisee support80% of franchisees come back for more—and why passion trumps experienceIf you think you know fast casual franchising, think again. This episode is a masterclass in how authenticity, values, and execution have morphed a niche idea into a thriving national brand.

Clarissa Windham-Bradstock, CFE, CEO, CPO on transforming healthcare access and building a franchise model for the future With a unique background that spans healthcare, franchising, and public policy, Clarissa Windham-Bradstock brings a bold, mission-driven leadership style to the helm of one of the nation’s most innovative direct-to-consumer lab testing brands. Under her guidance, Any Lab Test Now has not only expanded its national footprint but has also become a trusted resource for affordable, accessible healthcare testing — no insurance or appointments required.She’s also a passionate advocate for consumer empowerment in healthcare, a champion for women in franchising, and a firm believer in building purpose-driven franchise cultures.Join us for this candid conversation, at the trisection ofhealthcare, entrepreneurship, and leadership — and learn how Clarissa is helping shape the future of both franchise and healthcare delivery models.

Josh Wall is an accomplished brand leader with a stellarrecord of driving shareholder value through strategic acquisitions, innovative market development strategies, and dynamic team growth.  His passion is fostering high-performance cultures and delivering exceptional results. He is adept at steering organizations toward sustained success and market leadership.Josh has been growing successful franchise brands for20+ years.  Sixteen of those years were in key leadership positions in both Operations and Franchise Development at the wildly successful Christian Brothers Automotive.  In July of 2019 Josh left Christian Brothers to assume similar responsibilities for Urban Air Adventure Parks.  Today, he serves as Chief Operating Officer for Unleased Brands, the platform company that owns Urban Air, The Little Gym,Sylvan Learning Centers, Snapology, Premier Martial Arts, Class 101 and XP League.    As COO, Josh oversees brand teams for Operations, Franchise Development, Shared Services across the brands and is additionally responsible for all of the portfolio's Mergers and Acquisitions.  His leadership philosophy centers on strategic vision, operational excellence, and a relentless focus on achieving outstanding outcomes for all stakeholders. As a C-Suite leader, Josh is committed to leveraging these strengths to drive organizational growth and deliver significant value in competitive markets.

This week I am joined by Don and Evonne Varady, a dynamic husband and wife team who are the founders and franchisors of Clean Eatz, one of the fastest-growing healthy food franchises in the country. Evonne and Don share their incredible journey — from launching their first café to building a purpose-driven brand, that’s changing lives across the nation.We talked about:✅ The early struggles and breakthroughs✅ What it takes to build a values-based franchise✅ Staying mission-focused in a fast-growth business✅ How they’ve cultivated a community — not just customersIf you’re interested in entrepreneurship, franchising, orcreating impact through business, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.#CleanEatz #Entrepreneurship #Franchising #Podcast#HealthyLiving #PurposeDrivenBusiness #Leadership #SmallBusinessSuccess#ComingSoon #EvonneVarady #DonVarady Brought to you by: #FRMSolutions

True story: Transitioning from military life to the world of franchising can be a pivotal moment in one's career. Back in 1994, Mary Kennedy Thompson, a former Marine, embarked on this journey seeking stability for her family. Inspired by a simple franchise brochure from Cookies by Design, she took a leap that led to multiple successful locations and eventually to the role of President of the company.  Throughout her career, Mary has demonstrated that franchising isn’t just about business; it’s about empowerment. Here are a few insights from our conversation: • Leadership Matters: Mary emphasizes that effective leadership shapes organizational culture. Franchisors and franchisees alike must embody core values to drive success. • Community Drives Growth: The power of local support is immense. During uncertain times, organizations like BNI andIFA provide stability and a sense of belonging. • Give First: The transformative essence of giving is compelling. BNI’s motto “giver’s gain” showcases how selflessness can catalyze both personal and communal success.Mary's journey from the military to the C-Suite has always been as a servant leader.  She consistently illustrates that with resilience, one can navigate challenges and find new significance beyond mere success.

True story: Navigating the challenges of a male-dominated industry can be daunting, but through perseverance and mentorship, it's possible to carve your own path. Lora Kellogg's inspiring journey from becoming the first female VP at Scotty's, a chain of home improvement stores, to the founder and CEO of Curious Jane, The Ad Agency for Franchise Brands. Key insights from Laura's story and the podcast discussion: 1. Mentorship Matters: Having a supportive mentor can significantly influence your career trajectory, especially in challenging environments. 2. Adaptability is Key: Letting go of revenue to focus on a niche market can lead to greater growth opportunities. 3. Why Franchisors Should Build Internal, Franchise Development Marketing Infrastructure. Relying solely on brokers or FSO's, may not yield the best results. 4. Engaging Franchisees is Essential. Involving franchisees in national campaigns fosters collaboration andcommitment. 5. Leverage Technology Wisely: AI can enhance your marketing strategies, but it should complement human efforts, not replace them. "The Evolving Landscape of Franchise Marketing." Lora Kellogg, Founder and CEO of Curious Jane, The Ad Agency, for Franchise Brands, this week on Franchise Today.