Her Success

Building your Brand With Authenticity: On this episode of Her Success, your host Amanda Dempsey speaks with Felicia Reeves, the Chief Marketing Officer for Empower Brands, and Monica Feid, the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Thunderly Marketing about the vital role authenticity plays in the growth of a brand, and the power of a using a brand’s core mission to lead its trajectory.Special Guests: Felicia Reeves and Monica Feid.

Kathleen Gosser, Ph D, of the University of Louisville is this year's winner of the Crystal Compass Award given by the IFA's Women's Franchise Committee. Kathleen shares her thoughts on leadership in franchising with the WFC's Dawn Abbamondi of SMB Franchise Advisors.Special Guest: Kathy Gosser.

In this episode, Amy Elder sits down with Tanya Lee, Woofie’s Franchisee. They discuss the Franchise Means Local Campaign with IFA and Tanya’s journey to woman-owned Franchise ownership. Special Guest: Tanya Lee.

Welcome to Season Seven of Her Success, the podcast that celebrates the stories of female franchise leaders brought to you by The Women's Franchise Committee of the International Franchise Association. Today the committee's leadership team gives a preview of the 2026 Annual Leadership Conference happening Monday February 23rd during the IFA Annaul Convention in Las Vegas. Join WFC Chair Larisa Walega of Ziebart International and new incoming WFC Chair Ali Kraus of Benetrends as they discuss the ALC event and the mission of the Women's Franchise Committee with today's guest host, Jack Monson. Special Guests: Ali Kraus and Larisa Walega.

Annual Leadership Conference teaser alert!! Tune in to this month’s interview with Kyla Dufresne, founder of Foxy Box. Kyla explains how she made waxing a comfortable, fun, inclusive and sustainable experience for Foxy Box’s customers, and how the “Foxy Family” culture is central to their success in franchising. Enjoy this intro into Kyla’s story and mission-- Kyla will be speaking at the Annual Leadership Conference at the IFA Convention in February! Register for the Convention and for ALC to hear more from Kyla!Special Guest: Kyla Deufresne.

In this episode, Ashley Mitchell sits down with Alesia Visconti, the powerhouse CEO and President of FranServe Inc., to talk about her journey from corporate burnout to franchise trailblazer. What began with a simple Google search for “something else” turned into ownership of the world’s largest franchise broker network. Alesia shares how she followed her gut to buy FranServe just 18 months after joining, turned around Franchise Dictionary Magazine, and built a team rooted in trust, empowerment, and growth. They dive into her book, The Pink Tsunami: Women’s Rise in Franchising, and the many ways women can enter the franchise space—beyond just ownership.Special Guest: Alesia Visconti.

In this episode of the IFA Women's Franchise Committee Podcast: Her Success, host Amanda Dempsey interviews Carisa Findley, Senior Vice President of Franchise Support at Unleashed Brands. Carisa shares her how her introduction to small business ownership at age three led to her career in franchising and how her upbringing in franchising continues to impact her work and her approach with her team and franchisees. She also explains how her personal growth practices inform her philosophies on leadership, mentoring, and motivating others, and how that translates into high-performing, positive teams.Special Guest: Carisa Findley.

In this episode, we sit down with Allison Tsomos, Chief Operating Officer of Celebree School and a key member of the team behind the brand’s intentional, values-first expansion. Allison shares what it meant to be named IFA’s first-ever Emerging Franchisor of the Year, why laying a solid foundation before launching into franchising was crucial, and how she leads with empathy, culture, and heart - while continuing to use data to make good decisions. Special Guest: Allison Tsomos.

Amy Elder sits down with Caroline Miller Oyler for an insightful conversation about navigating the demands of work and personal life, breaking through barriers in leadership, and the value of mentorship. Caroline shares her perspective on maintaining high professional standards, fostering effective communication across teams, and ensuring alignment on business priorities. Together, they explore how staying true to core principles can shape not just careers but entire organizations, offering listeners practical advice and inspiration for their own professional journeys. Special Guest: Caroline Miller Oyler.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of the Her Success Podcast, Ali Kraus, Erin Fletter, and Abby Schmidt get real about perfectionism, self-advocacy, and the strength it takes to ask for help. From health scares to healing, they reflect on the importance of vulnerability, support, and redefining success. As Abby says, “You either win or learn”—and this episode offers a little of both.Special Guests: Abby Schmidt, Ali Kraus, and Erin Fletter.

In this episode, Alex West Steinman shares the heart behind The Coven – a community-driven co-working space built to empower women, non-binary, and trans leaders. From launching a business with a newborn and a toddler to raising kids who now pitch summer business ideas (this year: frozen bananas!), Alex opens up about the power of community, creativity, and leading with purpose. She shares candid advice on entrepreneurship, how her co-founders and family fuel her vision, and why support systems – big and small – make all the difference.Special Guest: Alex West Steinman.

In this episode of the IFA Women's Franchise Committee Podcast: Her Success, host Dawn Abbamondi Chief Marketing Officer with SMB Franchise Advisors is joined by this year’s Crystal Compass award winner, Robin Gagnon, CEO and Co-founder of We Sell Restaurants. As a repeat guest on this podcast, we learn a little bit more about Robin’s background and commitment to the IFA. Then, we tackle three key topics on this year’s radar: Mentorship, Work-life Balance and Breaking the Glass Ceiling. Hear from Robin on her perspective and the reminder to “raise your hand” as well as how she sees the franchise industry as a positive force for women (and men) to find success. Special Guest: Robin Gagnon.

In this episode of the IFA Women's Franchise Committee Podcast: Her Success, host Larisa Walega, Chief Growth Officer at Ziebart and Chair of the IFA Women's Franchise Committee, sits down with Shana Krisan, Chief Marketing Officer of Goldfish Swim School. A marketing powerhouse in franchising, Shana shares her journey from agency life to franchise leadership, offering invaluable insights on overcoming challenges, embracing authenticity, and empowering teams.

In this episode of Her Success, Ali Kraus chats with Matt Kunz, President of Mr. Rooter at Neighborly, about the profound impact the Annual Leadership Conference (ALC) has had on his career. A dedicated attendee since 2012, Matt shares how the interactive case study format at ALC inspired him to transform the way his own franchisees approach business challenges. By shifting the focus from failures to studying what works, Matt created a "Win or Learn" approach that helps franchisees grow and thrive. Tune in to hear how this powerful leadership mindset, shaped by the WFC’s ALC case studies, has led to real change within his brand and beyond.Special Guest: Matt Kunz.

Her Success welcomes IFA's Sydni Konohia, CFE the Manager of Member Services and Retention, and Paul Ehlinger, Founder/CEO of Flamel AI. Ali Kraus, CMO of Benetrends Financial and Vice Chair of the Women’s Franchise Committee spoke with Sydni to learn more about the Franship mentoring program available to members of the IFA. Sydni explains how a Mentee is paired up with a Mentor from the franchisor,franchisee and supplier communities. Then you wil hear from Dawn Abbamondi, Chief Marketing Officer with SMB Franchise Advisors, who is joined by her Mentee, Paul Ehlinger, a new member of the IFA. They discuss his launch into franchising as a new supplier member. When he learned about the IFA, he was excited to learn one of the benefits was the Franship mentoring program. Learn more about this journey and the benefits he sees in the Franship program.

In this episode, Amanda Dempsey interviews Mandy Ristic, Operating Partner of the OM Group, which owns and operates franchise locations of six brands that we know and love, Dunkin’, Baskin Robbins, Qdoba, Smoothie King, and Jimmy John’s. Mandy’s inspiring journey from a teenage ice cream scooper to a multi-unit, multi-brand business owner is a must-listen, as Mandy shares her tips for operating successful businesses by motivating staff, and shares what inspires her to keep growing. BONUS: Mandy will be speaking at the Annual Leadership Conference at one of our Leaders on the Spot!Special Guest: Mandy Ristic.

In this episode of the Her Success Podcast, Larisa Walega, Chair of the Women's Franchise Committee, and Ali Kraus, Co-Chair, dive into all things ALC (Annual Leadership Conference). From the inspiration behind the "Power of Five" theme to the incredible lineup of speakers and events, they share what makes this conference a must-attend for franchising professionals. Whether you're a seasoned leader or new to the franchise world, discover why this year's ALC is an event you can't afford to miss.

In our final episode of Season 5, Emma Dickison interviews Erika Stupiello, a standout franchisee in the Home Helpers franchise system. Erika shares her experience coming to the U.S. from Brazil, where she was a linguistics professor, and how her prior experiences shaped her choice to pursue a career as an entrepreneur in the home care industry.Special Guest: Erika Stupiello.

In this engaging episode of the IFA Women’s Franchise Committee Her Success Podcast, Larisa Walega, Chief Growth Officer at Ziebart and Chair of the Women’s Franchise Committee, sits down with Robin Gagnon, founder and CEO of We Sell Restaurants and Vice Chair of the IFA Franchisor Forum. Together, they dive into Robin’s journey of launching We Sell Restaurants, her path from a career in corporate marketing to building a thriving franchise dedicated to restaurant sales, and her experiences as a pioneering female leader. Robin shares how faith and courage shaped her business mindset, advising listeners—especially women in franchising—to believe in themselves, take risks, and embrace opportunities without waiting to be invited. From the crucial role of capital access to the value of supportive industry networks, Robin provides practical advice for aspiring franchise leaders, emphasizing the importance of community, mentorship, and actively engaging in franchising’s dynamic ecosystem. This episode is packed with inspiration, actionable insights, and a call to “go all in” on achieving your dreams.Special Guest: Robin Gagnon.

Join us as we celebrate the 50th episode of the Her Success Podcast, hosted by Ali Kraus, Co-Chair of the Women's Franchise Committee (WFC). In this special episode, Ali sits down with Liane Caruso, the first ever host/chair of the podcast, Emma Dickison, CEO of Home Helpers and the very first guest, and Cassidy Ford, current Chair of the WFC Podcast Task Force. Together, they reflect on the podcast's growth, the WFC's mission, and the impact of women's leadership in franchising. Don't miss this milestone moment!

In this inspiring episode of Her Success Podcast, host Liane Caruso sits down with Kristin Kidd, COO at Head to Toe Brands, and a multi-unit franchisee with School of Rock. Kristin shares her journey into franchising, insights on managing diverse brands, and strategies for balancing multi-unit ownership. Tune in to hear her perspective on being a female boss, scaling businesses, fostering community, and empowering teams across different industries.Special Guest: Kristin Kidd.

In this episode of "Her Success," Liane Caruso interviews Jyoti Sarolia, President and CEO of Ellis Hospitality Group. Jyoti shares her inspiring journey as a leader in the hospitality industry, from growing up in a family of hoteliers to navigating the challenges of franchising. Listen as she discusses the power of relationships, her advocacy work on Capitol Hill, and the balance between managing a family business and personal life.Special Guest: Jyoti Sarolia.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Terrian Barnes, interviewed by Emma Dickison.Special Guest: Terrian Barnes.

In this inspiring episode of "Her Success," Larisa Walega, Chair of the Women’s Franchise Committee, sits down with Meghan Pfenninger of the Mattiacio Group, a multi-store Ziebart franchisee. Meghan shares her unique path from nursing to the automotive franchising world, the challenges of working alongside family, and her passion for creating growth opportunities within her organization. Tune in to hear Meghan's insights on leadership, work-life integration, and the importance of taking risks in business.Special Guest: Meghan Pfenninger.

In this episode of "Her Success," Amy Elder from the Women’s Franchise Committee sits down with Ashley Coneff, Vice President of Government Affairs and Impact at Inspire Brands. Ashley shares her journey from practicing law to leading impactful policy initiatives that support franchisees and small businesses. Tune in to hear her insights on effective leadership, the importance of advocacy in the franchising sector, and how she's driving sustainability initiatives across the board. Whether you're curious about the inner workings of government affairs or seeking inspiration from a powerhouse in franchising, this episode is a must-listen!Special Guest: Ashley Coneff.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Deb Vilchis, interviewed by Cassidy Ford.Special Guest: Deb Vilchis.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Shannon Wilburn &Tracy Panese, interviewed by Dawn Abbamondi. The "exiting founder", Shannon Wilburn and "franchisee turned franchisor", Tracy Panase from Just Between Friends, were featured in this year’s ALC Case Study. T racy and Shannon speak about their experiences in franchising, transitioning roles through the sale of JBF, as well as their perspective watching the case study unfold in Phoenix. This episode covers leadership roles of female franchisees and franchisors, setting goals and the importance of raising your hand - being an advocate for yourself - not just for others.Special Guests: Shannon Wilburn and Tracy Panese.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Shane Evans, interviewed by Amanda Dempsey. Shane gives us an inside look at her journey from single-location business owner, to CEO of a health and wellness empire with over 100 locations and growing. Listen in to Shane’s story of grit, hard work, determination, and learn about her sources of inspiration, as the brand continues to grow and innovate. Special Guest: Shane Evans.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Colette Bell, interviewed by Dawn Abbamondi. You will hear Colette share her perspective of more than 25 years in franchising. Starting in 1998 when she and her husband & Co-Founder, Andy Bell started Handyman Matters all the way to when they were acquired by Ace Hardware which helped them to achieve their goal of becoming the largest handyman franchise in the world.Special Guest: Colette Bell.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Dina Dwyer-Owens, interviewed by Emma Dickison. Special Guest: Dina Dwyer-Owens.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Barb Moran, interviewed by Amanda Dempsey. An absolute titan in franchising, Barb tells us her story of building her family-owned business into a portfolio of five franchise brands, with over 120 locations nationwide. Tune in to hear Barb’s personal story of determination, heart, and hard work, and why “family” is the center of Moran’s culture and mission. Special Guest: Barb Moran.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Betsy Hamm, interviewed by Dawn Abbamondi. Betsy Hamm, CEO, Duck Donuts was the 2023 Annual Leadership Conference Case Study Presenter and CEO of Duck Donuts. In this conversation, Betsy speaks about her evolution from marketing roles in non-franchised brands to franchise operations, and then from COO to CEO as the original founder exited the brand. She talks about the impact of the pandemic, National Donut Day and the importance of an “Edible Ring of Happiness” for people everywhere. Special Guest: Betsy Hamm.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Michelle Rowan, interviewed by Cassidy Ford.Special Guest: Michelle Rowan.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Kathy Gosser, interviewed by Liane Caruso.Special Guest: Kathy Gosser.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Christina RussellSpecial Guest: Christina Russell.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Sherri Fishman, interviewed by Liane Caruso. Special Guest: Sherri Fishman.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Lisa Rossmann, interviewed by Dawn Abbamondi. Dawn and Lisa explore the role of mentorship for those just starting out in their careers (Lisa herself started out as a professional skin therapist prior to joining the brand in 2012), the importance of self-care and many other topics impacting women and professionals in the franchising industry.Special Guest: Lisa Rossmann.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Lynette McKee, interviewed by Amanda Dempsey. Lynette gives us a glimpse into her career at some of the biggest brands in franchising, and how the role of women in these organizations has changed over time. Listen in to hear great insight from Lynette’s past experiences, and how McKeeCo Services has allowed her to use her expertise to continue educating and leading brands to new heights. Special Guest: Lynette McKee.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Wanda Williams, interviewed by Liane Caruso.Special Guest: Wanda Williams.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Catherine MonsonSpecial Guest: Catherine Monson.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Tanishia Beacham, interviewed by Cassidy Ford. Special Guest: Tanishia Beacham.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Therese Thilgen, interviewed by Liane Caruso.Special Guest: Therese Thilgen.

Today’s guest on Her Success: The Founders of the Women's Franchise Committee with Michelle Rowan.Special Guest: Michelle Rowan.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Edith Wiseman, interviewed by Liane Caruso. Special Guest: Edith Wiseman.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Jo KirchnerSpecial Guest: Jo Kirchner.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Jaci Lee, interviewed by Amanda Dempsey. Jaci tells us about her journey from private practice litigator to taking the reigns as in-house counsel at the largest franchisee organization in the country. Listen in to hear about Jaci’s remarkable career (thus far!), including its challenges and her proudest moments, as Flynn continues to evolve under her leadership. Special Guest: Jaci Lee.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Greg Nathan, interviewed by Amy Perkins.Special Guest: Greg Nathan.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Susan Beth, interviewed by MIchelle Rowan.Special Guest: Susan Beth.

Today’s guest on Her Success: Meg Roberts interviewed by Michelle Rowan.Special Guest: Meg Roberts.

Jennifer Herskind, CMO, Propelled Brands brings over 20 years of experience in marketing with a demonstrated capacity to solve problems with fresh, insight-driven strategic solutions and scale for growth. Her broad background includes all marketing disciplines and strong cross-functional knowledge of all business fundamentals. She has a successful track record of transforming brands and driving business results in multiple fast-paced industries with diverse environments. A confident, goal-oriented leader with the ability to motivate others to achieve results, Jennifer is currently the Chief Marketing Officer for Propelled Brands, the umbrella for FASTSIGNS, NerdsToGo, MY SALON Suite, and Salon Plaza. Prior to that she held the role of Chief Marketing Officer for Smoothie King directing all brand, marketing and R&D strategy in the fulfillment of the company’s mission to inspire people to live a healthy and active lifestyle for over 1,000 locations. Before joining Smoothie King, Jennifer held senior leadership positions in a wide variety of franchise and company brands including Gold’s Gym, Dave & Buster’s, Nestle Waters North America and Pizza Hut. Jennifer began her career with The UPS Store where she worked in several roles as the primary driver of new product development and customer services in support of over 2,000 franchisees. In December 2018, she was named one of Dallas’ Rising Brand Stars by AdWeek. Herskind is a Dallas native and belongs to a family of business entrepreneurs she enjoys assisting in her spare time. Jennifer is interviewed by** Katherine LeBlanc**, CMO, Twist Brands.Special Guest: Jennifer Herskind.