The Franchise Academy Podcast

In this episode of The Franchise Academy Podcast, host Tom Scarda sits down with franchise veteran Jordan Levine, Chief Operating Officer of Stretch Zone, to explore what makes this wellness franchise a standout in the industry.With 25 years of experience in top franchise brands like Cold Stone Creamery, Massage Envy, and Sola Salons, Jordan shares the key ingredients that make Stretch Zone not just another fitness concept—but a strategic business opportunity. From its recurring income model to corporate-trained staff, Stretch Zone is built for franchisees looking for scalable growth and ongoing support.This episode also busts common myths about franchising—like the belief that you’re either on your own or that the franchisor will do everything for you. Jordan emphasizes that while Stretch Zone provides the structure, systems, and training, you still have to wear your entrepreneur hat and drive success.👉 Listen now to learn:What makes Stretch Zone’s business model uniqueWhy recurring revenue is a game-changer in franchisingThe level of training and support you can expectThe truth about what it really takes to succeed as a franchisee🎧 Click the link below to tune in and discover if Stretch Zone is the right fit for your entrepreneurial journey.Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms:

Everything Aspiring Franchisees Need to Know Before Signing the Dotted LineOn this insightful episode of The Franchise Academy Podcast, host Tom Scarda welcomes Michael Iannuzzi, Certified Public Accountant, Certified Franchise Executive, and Co-Leader of Citrin Cooperman’s Franchising Practice. Together, they demystify one of the most critical documents in the franchise world—the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).Whether you're a first-time franchise buyer or looking to expand your portfolio, this episode will give you a clearer understanding of:What audited financial statements in the FDD really meanThe right questions to ask when your target market isn’t included in Item 19Whether unverified information in the FDD holds any valueHow to contact current and former franchisees using the list at the back of the FDDWhy you should read the FDD multiple times and take notes before making a decisionHow to get Tom’s exclusive FDD Cheat Sheet with over 30 essential questions for franchiseesMichael shares powerful industry insights gained from years of experience working with top franchisors and multi-unit franchisees. You’ll learn how to approach the FDD with confidence, spot red flags, and perform due diligence like a pro.🎧 Click the link below to listen to the full episode and arm yourself with the knowledge you need to make smart franchise decisions.Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platformsAbout Michael IannuzziMichael is a CPA and Certified Franchise Executive with deep experience in franchise auditing, performance reporting, and financial disclosure. He’s an active voice in the franchising community, frequently speaking at IFA events, educational podcasts, and industry webinars. As Co-Leader of the Franchising Practice at Citrin Cooperman, he advises franchisors and franchisees across multiple sectors.

In this episode of The Franchise Academy Podcast, I sit down with Dave Lorenzo, co-founder of Exit Success Lab, to explore how CEOs and business owners can build companies that run smoothly without their constant involvement.Known as The Godfather of Growth, Dave shares how he helps business leaders put contingency plans in place to ensure their businesses continue to thrive—even in their absence. He breaks down a powerful case study of an attorney who outsourced 80% of her workload, allowing her to focus on client acquisition while her firm grew exponentially.Dave also reveals how a simple shift in language can reshape a CEO’s mindset, making it easier to step back, trust the team, and scale effectively.If you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or CEO looking to achieve growth without burnout, this episode is packed with insights to help you transition from operator to visionary leader.Meet Dave LorenzoDave Lorenzo is an entrepreneur, podcast host, and business growth strategist who specializes in helping business owners transform their companies from main street businesses into high-value investments.🔹 Co-founder of Exit Success Lab, a consulting firm that helps CEOs grow, scale, and plan their exits strategically. 🔹 Host of The Inside BS Show, where he shares actionable insights on leadership, sales, productivity, and exit strategies. 🔹 Founder of The Giving Group, a Florida-based business networking organization that supports local charities.With his strategic mindset, dynamic storytelling, and deep expertise, Dave is a sought-after advisor for business owners looking to maximize their success while gaining more freedom and flexibility.Key Takeaways from This Episode:✔️ Why every CEO needs a contingency plan – Preparing your business to run without you ✔️ How one attorney scaled her firm by outsourcing 80% of her work ✔️ The language shift that changes how leaders think about growth ✔️ How to go from daily operations to high-level strategy ✔️ The secret to long-term business success and exit readiness.Listen & Subscribe:🔗 Listen to the full episode here

In this insightful episode of The Franchise Academy Podcast, host Tom Scarda sits down with Cindi Filer and her son Matt Filer, the dynamic team behind Innovative Outsourcing. Together, they explore the evolving world of HR, where companies must rethink their strategies to attract and retain top talent—especially in a world moving back to on-site work.Cindi shares her journey of building a pioneering staffing company that connects businesses with top-tier part-time professionals. The Filers reveal how companies can create "commute-worthy" roles, develop powerful HR policies, and leverage storytelling to make job offers irresistible. They also discuss the secrets to retaining great employees and maintaining a healthy work culture.Whether you’re a CEO, a franchise owner, or an HR enthusiast, this episode offers practical insights and proven strategies to build a thriving workforce in 2025.Key Takeaways:✅ How to make job roles "commute-worthy" for on-site work.✅ The power of storytelling in getting candidates to accept offers.✅ Proven strategies for recruiting and retaining top part-time talent.✅ Why strong HR policies are essential for a successful team.Tune in and transform your approach to hiring and HR! 🚀

On this episode of The Franchise Academy Podcast, host Tom Scarda welcomes Cathy Miron, CEO of eSilo and a cybersecurity expert with over 15 years of experience in IT and audit. As cyberattacks grow more frequent and sophisticated, Cathy shares the essential knowledge every business owner needs to protect their data and financial systems.Whether you're a seasoned franchise operator or just starting out, this episode reveals:What ransomware is (and how it could shut down your entire operation)The shocking simplicity of modern email scamsHow attackers manipulate ongoing conversations to steal your moneyWhy passwords are no longer enough, and how Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is your first line of defenseThe role of password managers in securing sensitive business accountsFrom phishing to wire fraud, Cathy shares real stories, practical tools, and clear action steps you can take right now to secure your systems—without needing to be a tech expert.This is Cybersecurity 101 for every modern business. Don’t wait for a wake-up call—learn how to protect your company before it's too late.🎧 Listen to the full episode now and take the first step toward securing your business:Want help implementing these strategies in your business? Learn more about Cathy Miron and her work at eSilo.comHosted by Tom Scarda – Author, Franchise Consultant, and Podcast Host of The Franchise Academy.Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms:

In this episode of The Franchise Academy Podcast, host Tom Scarda sits down with Colt Florence, Senior Vice President of Franchise Development at Five Star Franchising, to discuss how Five Star Franchising is redefining success in the franchise industry.Colt shares how Five Star Franchising provides a powerful, recession-resistant business model with unmatched support systems—including sales, marketing, and operational tools—designed to help franchisees succeed, no matter their background or experience. He also dives into how private equity backing fuels growth, allowing franchise owners to maximize revenue and scale faster.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Five Star Franchising’s proven system sets franchisees up for successWhy their franchise model is recession-resistant and built for long-term growthThe truth behind common franchise mythsHow Five Star Franchising’s comprehensive support system helps owners thriveThe role of private equity in driving franchisee successAbout Five Star Franchising: Five Star Franchising is a leading platform of high-performing home service brands, including Five Star Bath Solutions, Gotcha Covered, Bio-One, 1-800-Packouts, Card My Yard, and Mosquito Shield. With a strong track record of success and a unique approach to franchisee support, Five Star Franchising helps entrepreneurs build sustainable, profitable businesses in growing industries.If you're looking for a franchise opportunity with expert guidance, built-in systems, and a proven path to success, this episode is a must-listen!

Join host Tom Scarda as he sits down with Stefan Figley, President of 1-800-Packouts, a leading name in contents and personal property restoration franchising since 2016. As part of the Five Star Franchising family, 1-800-Packouts has earned the trust of property owners and top insurance carriers across North America.In this episode, Stefan shares what makes this business so rewarding, the key qualities of a successful franchisee, and the unique advantages of joining this fast-growing franchise. He also breaks down the franchisee process, offering insights into what it takes to thrive in this industry.With nearly 30 years of experience in franchising and marketing, Stefan has held leadership roles at major brands like Terminix, Steamatic, Merry Maids, and Jani-King International. His expertise in brand growth and franchise development makes this a must-listen for anyone passionate about home service brands and considering franchising.Thinking about stepping into the franchise world? Tune in for an insightful conversation that could help shape your journey!

Hear the story of how Mailboxes Etc. became the UPS Stores. Hear about lessons learned during the process by the guy who was in charge of the transformation.

Why are Army and military veterans, successful franchise owners? Learn reasons military vets and franchises make a perfect match.

Rick Meekins is the Managing Partner at ABCG, Inc. and the Relentless Pursuit of Winning podcast host. Rick’s expertise lies in operations management, business analysis, process enhancement, and software implementation, such as ERP and CRM systems. Notable recent projects include customizing and deploying ZohoONE for an international team-building firm, selecting and implementing CRM solutions for a supplement manufacturer, and crafting a strategic roadmap for a skincare company. Mr. Meekins's career has included launching ventures, guiding businesses to operational excellence, and leveraging technology for strategic advantage.

As the franchising landscape undergoes a significant transformation, industry stakeholders must adapt to the changing tides. By following the innovative strategies and principles Penny describes in Manual Magic, franchisors now possess the tools to craft a "magic manual” of their own to help their franchisees gain a competitive advantage and propel them into a brighter, more successful future.

It's difficult to obtain unbiased franchise information. In this interview, find out the reality of franchise ownership, plus the dos and don'ts.

Brooke Budke is a marketing thought leader and franchise expert. She is the founder of Momentum Brands Marketing company.

There are only three reasons that are holding back your success. Phil Johnson, a master of Emotional intelligence explains it all on this podcast.

Once your systems are dialed in, it's all about daily behaviors, attitudes, and techniques in your business model. Jim Wilcox of Sandler Training explains in this podcast of The Franchise Academy.

Surinder Goode is a military spouse, business owner and podcast host of The Goode Show. Feel-good stories of military spouses of both genders.

Once your systems are dialed in, it's all about daily behaviors, attitudes, and techniques in your business model. Jim Wilcox of Sandler Training explains in this podcast of The Franchise Academy.

Marketing guru, Mark Montini speaks about marketing at Premium Service Brands.

Nora Farhat owns three franchise concepts, British Swim Schools, Pool Scouts, and Mathnasium. Nora explains how she does it and is a mom and wife, too.

Listen to a chat with Barry Falcon. His professional career spans more than 40 years. Mr. Falcon has over 18 years of direct experience in franchising, both as a franchisee and as an executive within multiple national franchise organizations.

Heather Hakes is a Mindset Coach, speaker, and author of Take the Leap. She has been featured on numerous podcasts and published in Authority Magazine, Thrive Global, Voyage Denver, and Women Who Empower and Inspire. Heather has reached tens of thousands through her international podcast, Mind Over Matter.Heather specializes in helping others get out of their own way by awakening their infinite potential to create their ideal life.

Diane Pleuss has matched hundreds of entrepreneurs with their perfect fit franchise opportunity, while successfully guiding them to avoid rookie mistakes – at no cost to her candidates. As a result, they are creating wealth, making an impact in their community, and enjoying the systems already in place to accelerate their path to success.

Founded in 2009, Level 5 Capital Partners is a next-generation growth equity firm investing in market-defining consumer businesses. Prior to L5, senior leaders of the team worked together investing in and operating consumer & technology businesses for over 10 years. The team leverages its operational experience to focus on the early growth equity space where pure financial sponsors are typically not well-equipped to invest. L5 can pursue these early-stage opportunities due to the depth and expertise of L5's captive operating team, Acceleration Services ("AS.")

David Weaver has a diverse and comprehensive entrepreneurial background to draw on as a FranChoice consultant. Having honed his business skills in a variety of ways, he now looks forward to sharing his knowledge and experience with others interested in business ownership. David embodies the Midwestern values of honesty and integrity in all aspects of life. He was born and raised in Indiana and got his first taste of business ownership by watching both parents build and operate successful businesses.

How does Private Equity money affect franchise companies? Is a monetary investment a good or bad event?

From foxholes and war to adventure and chasing dreams, #Smart is a team of ambitious individuals striving to improve the lives of those around them every day.

Top 3 Value Bombs:1. Whatever you choose, your choices always come down to uncertainty, and unhappiness. Choose uncertainty.2. There’s no way to get past fear. The only way is to embrace it and understand the ramification.3. Don’t go into something that has zero market, unless you have lots of money and lots of time. Get into something where there’s a niche, but not something that has never been done before.

Opening a coaching or consulting business presents unseen challenges. David Shriner-Cahn offers tips to overcome the challenges.

Learn about how to evaluate a franchise from the attorney's perspective.

Learn how to Maximize your ROL (Return On Luck) with Simon Severino. Simon is the Author of "Strategy Sprints" & "Habits of Success" He is the CEO of global consultancy "Strategy Sprints.”

oach business owners through any challenge at any stage of their business,” Keziah helps small business CEOs navigate the operational and existential challenges of scaling up, pivoting, and/or selling a business they’ve put their blood sweat and tears into.

Private Equity investors have found franchising as a great addition to portfolios. How does it affect a franchise company and the franchise owners? Alicia Miller, Co-founder and Managing Director of Catalyst Insight Group a boutique investment bank and strategic advisory firm focused on franchising, gives insights to these questions and more.

Angela Paules is the Chief Marketing Officer for Buzz Franchise Brands, the parent company for service brands Pool Scouts, Home Clean Heroes, and British Swim School, and founding franchisor for Mosquito Joe.

John Neral helps mid-career professionals prepare, position, and promote who they are and what they do so they can SHOW UP to find a job they love or love the job they have.

CorpNet is a company of experts that provide the easiest and most reliable platform to help you incorporate a business, form an LLC, or maintain compliance for an existing business. Learn the ins and outs of forming an enity and it’s importance with Nellie Akalp, CEO and Co-Founder at CorpNet.

Are your customer-facing employees creating exceptional customer experiences? Are they fully aligned to your brand story? If you can’t answer with a resounding YES!, then our guest today, Chris Wallace, Co-Founder & President of InnerView, has a solution for you. InnerView is a marketing consulting firm established to help companies reach and influence their most critical audiences – the people and partners that represent their brand.

Roger Khoury is an expert in Market Forecasting and has developed an innovation he calls "Market Vulnerability Analysis" which enables market participants to achieve consistent and sustainable performance results.

Ian Bower is the owner of Graphic Rhythm as well as other businesses that revolve around design, copywriting and Amazon marketplace selling. Ian is revolutionizing the way businesses obtain graphic design services by allowing them to obtain high-quality, on demand design assets without the hassle of hiring individual freelancers.

EnterpriseAlumni, the market-leading Alumni and Retiree Engagement Platform. Their software powers the corporate alumni networks of both medium-sized businesses and the world’s largest companies, including Google, LinkedIn, Citi, and Coca-Cola, leveraging a vast untapped pool of people for talent, sales, marketing, and community.

Deborah shares the differences between an LLC and a corporation and the reasons why a “C” corporation is needed when a retirement plan is used for financing. In addition, we speak about why someone needs an entity for their business.

Demystify credit and FICO scores. There is so much misinformation about the topic. Learn from Jennifer Hammond who has been helping people for 20 years to raise their scores.

Jennifer J. Hammond is a high-energy and versatile woman who not only serves as a real estate executive; but also as a satellite radio talk show host, a best-selling author, and is a member of The Happiness Hall of Fame! As a Vice President of TTR Sotheby’s - one of the country’s leading real estate companies - she has helped hundreds of clients attain their dreams in real estate for over 20 years. She has helped make the world a better place by educating, inspiring, and empowering people by hosting The Jennifer Hammond Show on SiriusXM for almost 10 years, and has aided thousands of veterans and their families in finding the help they need through her best-selling book “101+ Resources for Veterans”.

There are solutions other than bankruptcy for businesses that are suffering financially.

Giuseppe Grammatico is a franchise veteran, coach, author, speaker & consultant who simplifies the process of franchising and excels at guiding his candidates to the business model that best suits their desired lifestyle. His greatest joy is helping people realize the American dream and sharing the freedom that comes from franchising. Giuseppe is the author of Franchise Freedom: A New Manifesto For Your Financial And Time Freedom. He is also the host of his own podcast: Franchise Freedom.

Dr. Joni Carley, author of "The Alchemy of Power, speaks about values-driven leadership and cultural development. Dr. Carley shares how franchises can work toward a robust bottom line and add to Prosperity, People, Planet, Partnership, and Peace.

Loral Langemeier is one of today’s most innovative money experts. She accelerates the conversation about money, sharing how to, not just survive this tough economic climate, but how to succeed and thrive.

Gary Occhiogrosso is the Founder of Franchise Growth Solutions, which is a co-operative based franchise development and sales firm. Their “Coach, Mentor & Grow Program” focuses on helping Franchisors with their franchise development, strategic planning, advertising, selling franchises, and guiding franchisors in raising growth capital. Gary started his career in franchising as a franchisee of Dunkin Donuts before launching the Ranch *1 Franchise program with its founders. He is the former President of TRUFOODS, LLC a multi-brand franchisor, and former COO of Desert Moon Fresh Mexican Grille

Scott Greenberg helps companies and franchise brands boost unit-level performance. For more than two decades he’s worked full-time as a speaker, consultant, and coach, giving presentations in all 50 states and throughout the world with franchise clients that include McDonald’s, Great Clips, Anytime Fitness, Wyndham Hotel Group, RE/MAX, Smoothie King and countless other emerging, mid-sized and large franchise organizations. For ten years Scott was a multi-unit franchisee with Edible Arrangements. In addition to building a top-ranked flagship location in Los Angeles, Scott acquired a second struggling location and made it profitable within the first year. His operation won the Edible Arrangements “Best Customer Service” and “Manager of the Year” awards out of more than 1000 locations worldwide. Scott sold his enterprise in 2015 and today focuses full-time on speaking, coaching, and writing for the franchise industry. Scott is the author of the book The Wealthy Franchisee.

Throughout Jeff’s 25+ year career in franchising, he has helped hundreds of individuals realize their dream of business ownership. He began his career in franchising directly out of college in 1992 as a franchise sales assistant and after several years and promotions, he ended his career there as the Director of Franchise Development for the Americas. Jeff was recruited away from The Athlete’s Foot in 2001 to lead the franchise development efforts of a publicly-traded company that had decided to continue to expand through franchising. This gave Mr. Shafritz a unique opportunity to help develop a franchise system from the ground floor taking part in all aspects of building the division. For the past 18 years, Jeff has been a franchise consultant with FranChoice helping individuals find opportunities that match their goals, skills, and investment criteria.

The abundance mindset to be successful at anything including business.