Ever wonder how a franchise can keep growing without a ceiling in sight?  Cory Lyons, the CEO of Koala Insulation and a 20-year veteran in the franchise world, will give us his insights. In this episode, Cory reveals what drew him to Koala Insulation, how they’ve managed explosive growth since franchising in 2020, and why they’re only scratching the surface of their potential.  We dive into the key systems that impressed him, how he balances franchisee and franchisor support, and the KPIs driving Koala's success.  Plus, Cory shares why the unknown future of the brand keeps him excited every day. 00:01:41 - The Journey to Becoming the CEO of Koala Insulation 00:04:30 - What Systems Did Koala Insulation Have that Impressed Cory? 00:07:30 - The Trajectory of Koala Insulation Since Cory Joined 00:12:39 - Balancing Support Between Franchisees and Franchisors 00:17:05 - What Services do Koala Insulation Actually Provide? 00:24:17 - An Insight Into Koala Insulation’s 4 Big KPIs 00:26:57 - The Future and Potential of Koala Insulation’s Growth Trajectory Follow Cory: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-lyons-6a9ab919/ Follow The Wolf: Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel. Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.  And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Ever wondered what it takes to stand out in a saturated niche like health and fitness? Tune in as The Wolf chats with Tom Dowd and Janina Czado, the dynamic duo behind F45 Training's exciting transformation and the birth of their new brands, FS8 and VAURA.  They're shaking up the fitness world with a clever hub and spoke model but not without the hiccup of naming their latest venture.  Tom and Janina dive into how they're enhancing the sensory experience in their Pilates studios and setting bold visions for F45 Training, FS8 and VAURA. They also share how they're standing out in a crowded market by delivering impactful content that truly empowers their community. Discover their groundbreaking reciprocity program by F45 Training, which opens doors for members across studios, and get a behind-the-scenes look at the robust support system uniting their brands. 00:01:20 - Bringing Pilates to Mainstream Market 00:05:44 - How Janina Became Involved With F45 Training 00:7:18 - When was F45 Training launched in the US? 00:08:40 - Differentiating Fitness Concepts in Pilates 00:14:05 - Brand Differences in VAURA, FS8 and F45 Training 00:19:01 - Breaking Down Financial Metrics 00:22:32 - How Are the Three Brands Structured? 00:24:50 - Restructuring All the Brands Into a Single Platform Follow Tom: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-dowd-9092981/ Follow Janina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janinaczado/ Follow The Wolf: Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com. And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much! 

How does the co-founder of beem Light Sauna think about scaling a thriving health and wellness franchise? The Wolf talks with Cynthia May, CEO and Co-Founder of beem Light Sauna, to discover her secret to scaling from 0 to 65 locations in a little over four years. Cynthia reveals her biggest challenges and successes in scaling a franchise brand, unraveling how she and her team developed systems that allowed their franchisees to truly thrive. How did culture and values fundamentally shape the nature of her franchise? Cynthia also shares her insights into the unique benefits of light therapy— from mental health to weight loss and detoxification, she explains why customers are drawn to their private individual suites and rooms and how their membership-based business model sets the stage for success. Plus, what’s in store for beem Light Sauna? And how has partnering with prelaunch partners and vendors upped their marketing game? Tune in now to find out!   Join the fastest-growing VR franchise in the world and be among the first to bring premium immersive VR experiences to your community. Invest in the future of entertainment by visiting franchise.sandboxvr.com.   00:01:30 - Scaling a Franchise Brand Successfully 00:05:43 - Finding the Right Location for Brands 00:08:46 - Partnering for Membership Sales Success 00:15:16 - Customizable Infrared and Red Light Therapy 00:21:25 - Top 3 Reasons for Wellness Retreats 00:25:29 - Transitioning from Founder to CEO 00:34:18 - Establishing Culture and Values for Business Success 00:40:50 - Goals for beem Light Sauna Beyond Units Learn More About beem Light Sauna: Website: https://franchise.beemlightsauna.com/   Follow Cynthia: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthiamay/   Follow The Wolf: Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel. Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com. And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

How do you launch your own franchise empire from scratch? Meet Matt Stapleford, the entrepreneur one year into building his niche business with Go Mini Storage. The Wolf and Matt get straight into it, discussing how his background as a numbers guy persuaded him towards franchise ownership, why he loves the autonomy and freedom franchises offer, and his ambitious plans to expand across Pittsburgh. You’ll also hear why getting the right franchise is essential, how to crunch the numbers for due diligence, and why Matt’s priority is always family first. And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much! Follow Matt: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthew-stapleford-831688ba Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf The Wolf is a friend of Workweek, working together to produce amazing podcasts. Find out more, visit: www.workweek.com

Why does a Wall Street professional switch to Wingstop franchise ownership? Michael Horowitz explains how he made the crossover and why it’s the best move he ever made. The Wolf gets straight into it with Michael, who in his quest to become a franchise owner, researched and spoke to every big name, every fast food franchise brand in the industry. He finally settled on Wingstop and is now the owner of 20 units. You’ll hear Michael’s opinions on traditional business routes versus franchises, how to get a shot at buying into a big brand, and how to evaluate your business model. And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much! Follow Michael: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mahorowitz Twitter: twitter.com/mahorowitz Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf The Wolf is a friend of Workweek, working together to produce amazing podcasts. Find out more, visit: www.workweek.com

David Weis has made one mistake in his franchise journey. He won’t make it again. Find out how the Mayweather Boxing franchise has found its place in LA. After working in the fitness industry for decades as a trainer, David launched his own chain of gyms in the Boston area. Beacon Hill Athletic Club is still hugely successful and David has turned his attention to a franchise with a powerful boxing name attached. Daniel and David launch straight into how David missed out on an Orange Theory franchise opportunity, but jumped straight in as the first owner of Mayweather Boxing in 2018. You’ll hear why boxing training is the workout with long-term stayability, the power of a name, and how customer service is the biggest differentiator. David also shares his plans to build 5 other sites in Los Angeles and his ambitions to expand into Boston, Tokyo, and Tel-Aviv. And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much! Follow David: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/david-ilan-weis-a5009062 The Wolf is a friend of Workweek, working together to produce amazing podcasts. Find out more, visit: www.workweek.com Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf

The Speers are natural entrepreneurs. From owning an auto-motive business to homeschooling, this power couple knows the value of franchising a great education product. After watching one of their daughters struggle to get to grips with mathematics, James and Jennifer Speer sought help with the Mathnasium teaching method. Impressed with the product, they created the first Mathnasium Learning Center franchise in 2011. And they haven’t looked back. The Wolf gets into conversation with Jennifer and James, talking about how they’ve expanded to 10 locations around Texas, why you should burn your ships and go all in, and why buying is easier when you get your first location right. You’ll also hear why you should get to know your business inside and out and how that makes buying easier than building. And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much! Follow James: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/james-speer-78432955 Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf The Wolf is a friend of Workweek, working together to produce amazing podcasts. Find out more, visit: www.workweek.com

Brian Beers is the Swiss Army Knife of franchisees. From buying to scaling and selling, he pulls no punches. And as the owner of 29 Midas locations, Brian knows entrepreneurship inside and out. When the family business is franchises, you know you’re in the hands of an industry expert. Brian’s family founded Midas, the auto repair franchise, in 1976. Now Brian runs multiple units, all within an hour of Philadelphia. The Wolf and Brian dive right into how Brian leverages owner finance to buy locations, why a profit first approach should be every business owner’s priority, and how to identify a franchise system that has plenty of acquisition opportunity. You’ll also hear how the Baby Boomer generation plays a role in Brian’s acquisition strategy and his ambitious goals for the future. And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much! Follow Brian: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brian-t-beers Twitter: twitter.com/brianbeers Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf The Wolf is a friend of Workweek, working together to produce amazing podcasts. Find out more, visit: www.workweek.com

Erik Van Horn has owned 6 franchise brands, built 43 locations and made some great sales. Now he works 3 days a week on things he loves. Find out his secret on this season premier. As a veteran in the world of franchising, Erik knows how important it is to prioritize your time on things you enjoy doing, even more than making money. But he’s done both and is ready to share the secret sauce. The Wolf dives into conversation with Erik about the process of building multiple Liberty Tax franchises across Austin, how he built, grew and sold Sola Salon studios in California, and why 15-20 hours a week is the work/life balance he loves. You’ll also hear how Erik got into business through a gardening job and the realities of being a multi-brand owner. And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much! Follow Erik: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/evanhorn Check out Erik's podcast, community, and more here: https://www.franchisesecrets.com Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf The Wolf is a friend of Workweek, working together to produce amazing podcasts. Find out more, visit: www.workweek.com

If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or already building out your franchise empire, finding the information you need can be tough. There’s plenty out there but so often it’s opaque and hard to access. You already know the smart money lies in franchises, you just need to cut through the noise and get the inside scoop on how to choose, own and scale your business. I’m The Wolf, and this is season 2 of Franchise Empires. Whether you’re an aspiring owner or have one or two businesses to your name, you’ll get insight into raising capital, and hot takes on how to choose a business that resonates with your values and goals. Last season I unlocked the playbooks of franchisees from killer brands like Orange Theory, Five Guys, and Dunkin’ Donuts, and this season’s line up is equally as stellar. Every episode you can expect thoughtful takeaways from a successful franchise builder with practical insights like why you don’t need a ton of investment to get started, the secrets to running 100 stores, and why you don’t need to quit your day job straight away. Owning a franchise might not be the most obvious path to entrepreneurship, but if you’re looking to build sustainable wealth using tried and tested models, your journey starts here. With season 2 dropping on June 21, and new shows every Tuesday, tune in for everything you need to build your franchise empire. Make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

Military veteran Betsy Erb has a vision. And she’s not going to stop until she’s built her pet franchise empire. How is she going about it? By leveraging an established franchise brand, Dog Training Elite, to boost a newer opportunity: PetWellClinic. The Wolf talks to Betsy about how PetWellClinic is solving a massive pain point for the owners of animals in need of urgent care, her short and long term plays, and how she and husband Ed are horizontally integrating in the pet industry. You’ll also hear how Betsy plans to leverage the two brands, what it’s like taking on a multi-unit deal, and her vision as an entrepreneur. Multi-units, multi-franchises - this is a business strategy you’ll want to take note of. Follow Betsy on Instagram:@dogtrainingeliteselouisiana Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf

Early on in his banking career, David Schuck realized he really needed to be his own boss. He picked up a low cost franchise and hasn’t looked back. If you’re unwilling to give up the day job straight away, owning a seasonal franchise like Liberty Tax that’s really only on during tax season, is the way to start. The Wolf and David get into how he picked up his first low cost unit, how he eventually went all in on franchise ownership, and how he scaled by acquiring other franchisee’s businesses. You’ll hear how he still owns 12 Liberty Tax franchises to this day, using them as a stepping stone to open 27 Club Pilates centers, and why he partnered with a private equity firm to fuel his growth. David also shares his long-term vision of building an empire worth $100,000,000. Follow David: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/david-schuck-spartanfitnessholdings Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf

Meet Jamie Weeks, owner of more than 100 Orangetheory franchises and about to launch his own brand. The secret to his success? Risk taking.  Jamie is a big personality and a phenomenal success. With 140 Orangetheory boutique fitness studios in his portfolio, and in the process of building 60 Dogtopia franchises, he’s also launching his own, Sweathouz. The Wolf and Jamie talk about building an incredible culture despite having hundreds of businesses, how a private equity deal launched him from 12 to 140 locations, and why taking risks is at the heart of his approach to building a vastly successful business. As well as hearing the wisdom behind owning multi-unit franchises, there’ll be a lot of laughs and you’ll get to listen to Jamie putting The Wolf through his patented interview process. This is one you won’t want to miss. Follow Jamie: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jamie-weeks-712543221 Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf

Before it became a media franchise sensation, Dave’s Hot Chicken was a pop-up shop in East Los Angeles creating a line as long as the eye could see. Now it has a national cult following with investors like Drake and Usher invested in the Nashville-style chicken chain. The Wolf sits down to chat with founding franchisees, Andrew Feghali and Lawrence Kourie about the challenges and triumphs of starting a franchise in a new market and the excitement of becoming part of a rapidly growing brand.  Hear how Dave's Hot Chicken has gained attention not only for its mouth-watering menu but also for its celebrity investors. How do its chef-inspired offerings set it apart from the competition? And how has Dave’s made the art of the simple menu work in their favor? Can Dave’s Hot Chicken compete with In-N-Out? Lawrence and Andrew explain how focusing on the people behind the brand and creating room for growth has led to a fantastic working culture and a high degree of scalability. Plus, don’t miss out on an exclusive sneak peek into the future of Dave's Hot Chicken, including plans for expansion and international growth. Sandbox VR is the world’s most advanced virtual reality experience. With more than 45 locations across 7 countries, this full-body gaming provides unprecedented realism and complete immersion that’s not possible anywhere else. Groups of up to six can roam the VR space together, exploring exclusive virtual worlds and relying on each other to succeed while surviving a zombie apocalypse, battling a mighty dragon, hunting for lost treasure, and more. Visit Franchise.SandboxVR.com to learn more. 00:00:00 - Franchisees Share Dave's Hot Chicken Story 00:03:53 - Dodgers Game Meeting Leads to Successful Store Opening 00:06:06 - Opening a Franchise in San Diego 00:12:55 - Balancing Speed and Patience in Expansion 00:18:52 - Simplicity Key to Dave's Success 00:22:14 - Celebrity Investors Back Dave's Hot Chicken 00:26:18 - Third-Party Delivery: A Big Model   Follow Lawrence: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrencekourie/   Follow Andrew: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-feghali-6728197a/   Follow The Wolf: Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel.   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Wanting to become a franchisee is one thing, knowing which business model to invest in, quite another. Meet Brian Knuth, VP of Franchise Development at Raintree. Brian educates potential franchise partners, identifying which franchise partnerships might work out best. But Brian is also a franchise owner of Footprint Floors, which he runs as a semi-absentee owner. The Wolf and Brian get into conversation about representing emerging franchise brands, how Covid rocked his business and some of the struggles you face juggling your day job with your franchise business. You’ll also hear why Brian knew he had to dive into Footprint Floors, and why he feels privileged to help people break away from the corporate grind and pursue a career they’re truly passionate about. Twitter: linkedin.com/in/brian-knuth-06101654 Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf

Meet Alex Jones, former banker, triathlete, Olympic hopeful, and dad of two. For 9/10 franchise owners, one unit just isn’t enough to generate the levels of income they’re aiming for. But, very rarely, a site and franchise comes along that performs so well, everything just falls into place. And that’s where Alex Jones’ CPR store comes in. The Wolf talks with Alex about leaving the world of finance to chase his passion for windsurfing, why you should convert an existing phone repair shop into a franchise, and how to build a transparent culture in your team. You’ll hear why Alex’s Bermuda franchise is the best performing location out of 850+ worldwide, why your customers are the best sales people, and why your internal customer service is crucial for success. Follow Alex Twitter: twitter.com/Rebelbanker Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf

Zac Pennington has turned franchise ownership into a family affair. Find out why Anytime Fitness might be the perfect pairing, and why 8 gyms are just the start. The fitness industry is highly competitive but that level of competition is exactly what fuels Zac’s passion for providing health and wellbeing. From working in jobs that ultimately left him unsatisfied, diving into franchise ownership has given him a business model that fits perfectly with his core values. The Wolf and Zac discuss how growing up in a family of entrepreneurs was key to running his own business, why his creative freedom is so important to him, and why he knows exactly how to dominate the fitness market. You’ll hear how Zac jumped on an opportunity to take over a struggling Anytime Fitness business and turned it around, how this kickstarted his chain of ownership, and why he’s always looking for more. Follow Zac: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/zacari-pennington Twitter: twitter.com/zacpennington Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf

Unlocking franchise ownership is the defining mission of Kenny Rose and FranShares. Find out how he’s helping potential franchise owners get in on the ground floor. After discovering Fundrise, a fractional share trading platform for commercial real estate, Kenny knew he’d found a gap in the market for franchise ownership. FranShares was born and in those early days, Kenny spent his time diligently building an audience he’d later market the FranShares offer to. The Wolf and Kenny talk all things franchise and founders. From building a company from the ground up with $1.4million in investments to what it’s like having more than 23,000 on the waiting list ready to invest. You’ll hear how FranShares is dramatically lowering the barrier to franchise ownership. Why owning a piece of a local business is a powerful virtuous circle and how, at scale, FranShares will enable franchises to be traded like stocks. When you’re looking to get in on franchise ownership, you need a team on your side to smooth the path. FranShares makes it easy to build, manage and grow your portfolio from as little as $500. Find out more: franshares.com Follow Kenny: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kennyrose Twitter: InvestLocally Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf

From college drop out to multi-unit franchisee, the path of entrepreneurship isn’t always a straight one. Find out how Lucas Mitchell discovered his gift for restaurant management. An entrepreneur from the start, Lucas made the decision early on to quit college and focus on building a web design business. To cover the bills, Lucas worked at his local Five Guys and his experience working at his parents’ restaurant quickly shone through. The Wolf and Lucas discuss how the business of food and hospitality is in Lucas’ blood and why working for someone else was never going to be his dream Lucas recalls his rapid rise from Location Manager to Territory Manager of 8 locations and the moment he realized it was time to put aside his web design business and pursue a career as a franchisee. You’ll hear how he grew from one Five Guys location to 13 and why he’s still hungry for success. When you’re looking to scale like Lucas, you need a team on your side to smooth the path. FranShares makes it easy to build, manage and grow your portfolio from as little as $500. Find out more: franshares.com Follow Lucas: Twitter: @LMitchellHQ Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf

How do you create a wildly successful multi-unit franchise? You create synergy. Joe Johnson knows a thing or two about that with his car repair and parts businesses.Check out Joe’s playbook. You learn a whole lot during 23-years in the military, and after retiring from the US Army in 2005, Joe has applied that knowledge to building his auto franchise empire. But what makes this portfolio unique is how his businesses interact. The Wolf and Joe discuss how owning a Maaco auto-collision repair and paint shop, a Meineke auto-maintenance and repair shop AND a 1-800 Radiator franchise have created incredible synergy. Not only can he service just about any car problem,  he can also supply parts to both businesses. Cross selling at its finest. Joe shares why horizontal integration allows you greater control over your destiny, why owning the dirt gives you more value and options, and the importance of doing a deep dive on potential franchise opportunities. When you’re looking to launch your own franchise empire and, like Joe, want to make sure the research is done right, you need a great team. FranShares is the team you need, making it easy to build, manage and grow your portfolio from as little as $500. Find out more: franshares.com Check out The Wolf’s newsletter Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf

What do you do when the bottom falls out of your property investments? You sell up and retire. Then you start over as part of a billion-dollar franchise. Meet Gavin McConnon, serial entrepreneur. Still in his 20s, Gavin was riding high in Ireland on the back of selling 900 numbers and ringtones. Having invested millions in commercial real estate, he was hit by the 2008 collapse and forced to sell everything. The Wolf talks to Gavin on how his semi-retirement to Australia triggered his interest in franchises and why F45 in particular caught his eye. Gavin shares what it’s like being part of one of the fastest growing franchises across the globe, his experience as a serial entrepreneur who founded multiple tech startups and why franchises are so appealing . You’ll hear the benefits of having a brand with an established playbook already in place, how to expand your team and grow your locations from one to three, six and even more. When you’re looking to launch your own franchise empire, like Gavin, having a team behind you is a great place to start. FranShares is making it easy to build, manage and grow your portfolio from as little as $500. Find out more: franshares.com Follow Gavin on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavinmcconnon/?originalSubdomain=mc Twitter: https://twitter.com/gavinmcconnon?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf

When you’re not ready to join the family business, franchises are a solid alternative. Usman Chaudrhy is now the owner of 6 locations and scaling fast. Usman has made the transition from corporate worker to multi-unit owner, but not before he learnt all the lessons that have made him a success. Now with 6 Dunkin’ Donuts stores under his belt and 3 more under construction, he has his eyes set on growth, The Wolf and Usman discuss what it’s like growing up the son of entrepreneurs, why doing in-depth research is the foundation to building a successful business and how to assess lenders based on specificity, rather than emotional response. You’ll hear why Usman is fine with paying royalties, how to tackle banks who may not want to lend to you and the advantages of opening a franchise near a college campus. Deep thinking and research are Usman’s superpowers and this dedication to detail is something he shares with show sponsor FranShares, who are making it easier to build, manage and grow your franchise empire from as little as $500. Find out more at: franshares.com Follow Usman on: Twitter:  twitter.com/UsmanJazab Check out The Wolf’s newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf

It’s easier to sell 100 slices of pizza to one customer than one slice to 100 customers. This valuable lesson is just one element of Nick Panos’ highly successful franchise playbook. As Vice-President of Panos Restaurant Group, one of the company’s main focus points is operating its highly successful Mellow Mushroom restaurant chain. And if there’s one valuable lesson Nick is keen to share, it’s that catering is a game changer. It provides your business with a b2b revenue stream that, crucially, doesn’t cut into your peak operating hours but utilizes unused capacity. Nick joins The Wolf talking about pseudo recurring revenue streams you can effectively build into your restaurant business. He also shares how positioning your business as the restaurant of choice for annual conferences should be at the top of your to-do list. You’ll learn why playing long term games with long term people is the key to recurring revenue. And hear how to pick a franchise brand with longevity, plus why your long term success depends on you choosing great employees and taking care of them. Monetizing franchises is a passion Nick shares with our sponsor FranShares, who are making it easier to build, manage and grow your franchise empire from as little as $500. Find out more at: franshares.com Follow Nick on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nicolaospanos Check out The Wolf’s newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ Stay up-to-date on all things Franchise Empires by following The Wolf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf

Almost all startups are doomed to fail. But there’s another path to entrepreneurship that gets overlooked, one that’s far less risky than starting your own company. One that gets you healthy profits and a healthier lifestyle too: And that’s Franchises. I’m The Wolf. Welcome to The Franchise Empires. As you’re listening to this, there are thousands of franchise owners creating financial freedom through franchises. But how exactly can you take your first step to get in on the action? The answer is why I started The Franchise Playbook - to give aspiring entrepreneurs access to the people who have grown their franchises from one location to 10, 20, to even thousands. If you’re interested in franchises, we’re breaking down the exact playbook you need to get started. To get a taste for what franchises can be like, I want to tell you a quick story about Guillermo Perales. Guillermo is the founder of Sun Holdings. He didn’t have a special start. When he arrived in the States from Mexico in the 90s, Guillermo was an ordinary guy, just like you and me. His journey all started with just a single Small Business Administration loan, something that many Americans can tap into and take advantage of. Today Guillermo owns more than 1,200 franchises, employing 22,000 people and generating over 1 billion dollars in revenue every single year. But you don’t need that many franchises to see huge returns, you don’t even need 10. A handful of well run franchises can create the wealth you’re seeking, and on this show I'll teach you exactly how. To take your first step onto the franchise ladder, tune in on March 3rd for our season premiere, with new episodes every Tuesday. Make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

Did you know when it comes to where your franchise is situated, there’s a breakfast side and a dinner side of the street?  Dinesh Goswami certainly does, and with 125+ franchise locations open, including Pizza Hut, Popeye’s, , Taco Bell, and Checker’s, he knows why understanding your location is the #1 thing you can do to ensure the longevity of your franchise.  Dinesh talks with the Wolf about his diversified portfolio and the valuable lessons he’s learned from his extensive franchising career about staying resilient and consistent in the face of economic fluctuations. How have specialized franchise lenders and SBA loans helped Dinesh to scale? Plus, discover his unique approach to acquiring talent and fostering a people-centric business. From understanding the importance of location selection to leveraging organic growth opportunities, Dinesh provides his incredible insights into the challenges of franchising at a high-level scale.    00:00:48 - From Banker to Popeyes Owner 00:02:12 - Corporate Dropout Opens Successful Franchise 00:05:03 - Considerations for Choosing Restaurant Locations 00:12:39 - Avoid Costly Mistakes When Opening a Restaurant 00:14:03 - How to Convince Someone to Switch Jobs 00:18:41 - Capital Strategy for Business Expansion: SBA Loans or Profit Funneling? 00:21:06 - Specialized Lenders for Franchise Industry 00:29:25 - Diversifying Brands for Steady Growth 00:36:04 - Understand Your Strengths Before Marketing   Follow Dinesh: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinesh-goswami-463547130/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dineshvgoswami/   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel.   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!  

What’s the latest Twitter beef with an army of minions going to war for Gas Biz Guy? Is it a joke or is there legitimate beef behind the brawl?   Join The Wolf as he sits down with viral Twitter personality Gas Biz Guy (aka Chris Hellgeth), a self-made entrepreneur who turned a ten-cent cigarette sale into a $100 million-a-year gas distribution business. They break down the secrets to success in the gas station industry, including the importance of value, experience, and building a strong brand. Discover how the Gas Biz Guy built his business from the ground up, overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities along the way. From cashing checks to gas station ownership, he shares his entrepreneurial journey and offers valuable insights for aspiring business owners. The Gas Biz Guy also peels back the curtain on the little-known gas and convenience store industry, unpacking the unique synergy between quick-serve restaurants and gas stations and exploring the opportunities they can provide potential investors.   And later, he and the Wolf dive into the evolving trends in the convenience store industry, from the rise of novelty energy drinks to the increasing focus on customer experience. Find out how higher-margin locations are expanding their margins by providing a clean environment and excellent customer service.     00:00:00 - Gas Station Enthusiast Dominates Twitter 00:04:14 - From a 10 Cent Cigarette Sale to a $100 Million Success 00:08:26 - Solving the Unbankable Population Issue 00:12:14 - Gas Stations: Profit from Convenience, Not Gas 00:15:22 - Gas Station Industry's Value Proposition 00:20:15 - Buying from Distributors: Convenience Store Margins 00:24:32 - Cooler Products Dominate Market Growth 00:25:47 - Synergy Between Gas Stations and Restaurants   Follow Gas Biz Guy: Twitter: https://twitter.com/gas_biz   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel.   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!  

How did a West Point flight school graduate become the founder of 79 optical stores across the US? Bill Noble, Pearle Vision’s largest multi-unit franchise owner, joins the pod to chat with the Wolf about his fascinating journey from sitting in the cockpit to building a nationwide franchise empire.   From his early days at Harrah's Entertainment to his transition into the retail industry, Bill shares valuable insights on leadership, partnership, and the challenges of growing a franchise business. Discover how his military background and experience in the gaming industry shaped his approach to leadership and motivated him to start his own franchise. Bill discusses the importance of maintaining a true partnership between franchisors and franchisees and reveals how honest feedback and open communication contribute to the growth and success of a franchise organization. He and the Wolf dissect the strategies and considerations involved in acquisitions and growth and uncover how market conditions and lending criteria can impact a franchise's expansion plans. Whether you're a seasoned franchise owner or considering starting your own business, gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics and intricacies of building a successful franchise empire.   00:00:23 - Military Veteran's Journey to Retail 00:03:27 - First Leadership Role Outside Military 00:05:42 - Transitioning Leadership Skills from Gaming 00:08:11 - From Lenscrafters Employee to Franchise Owner 00:15:12 - Navigating Pressure as a CEO 00:18:31 - Converting Corporate Locations to Pearle Visions 00:21:21 - Transitioning from Corporate CEO to Franchise Leader 00:24:37 - Navigating Growth in Changing Markets 00:29:38 - Approaching Leadership as a Franchise Owner 00:38:07 - Balancing Personal Identity in Competitive Organizations 00:45:27 - Franchise Concept Evolves into Partnership   Follow Bill:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamnoble1/   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel.   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Deb Merrill had no idea she was destined for franchise management until her brother-in-law asked if she’d be interested in running a Jimmy John’s. Realizing that stage management wasn’t the dream job she had hoped it would be, Deb left her theater career behind for the food service industry. In this candid conversation with the Wolf, Deb opens up about her rise from the bottom of the food chain to the top of the Jimmy John’s game. How did she take the dive into franchising with zero experience in the industry and eventually open 12 different locations? And what was it really like working with family?   Deb also shares her wisdom into the daily rewards and challenges of running a Jimmy John’s franchise from the physical demands of the job to the importance of finding the right team members. What should the structure and setup of a fair franchise agreement look like? And what’s the importance of maintaining positive relationships with franchisees? Plus, learn about the early days of Jimmy John's, including the impact of the economic crash in 2008 and the struggles of balancing construction schedules and employee training. What kinds of unique opportunities does Jimmy John’s provide for franchise owners? Tune in now to find out!   Workstream is the all in one tool for restaurants to run their HR, hiring, and payroll operations. Trusted by over 25,000 restaurant locations, Workstream is the people management tool built for managing hourly workers. Visit http://www.workstream.us/thewolf to learn more! 00:00:00 - Transitioning from Theater to Fast Food Franchise 00:03:06 - Navigating Responsibility and Control in Business 00:04:35 - Balancing Construction and Opening Schedules 00:07:03 - Corporate Training at Jimmy John's 00:08:47 - Opening Two Stores in Six Months 00:14:41 - Arranging Fair Structures for Collaborations 00:15:48 - Navigating Family Business Dynamics Successfully 00:18:59 - 16 Years of Steady Store Growth 00:21:57 - Expanding Store Locations: A Timeline   Workstream is the all-in-one tool for restaurants to run their HR, hiring, and payroll operations. Trusted by over 25,000 restaurant locations, Workstream is the people management tool built for managing hourly workers. Visit http://www.workstream.us/thewolf to learn more!     Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel.   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!  

Drew Gressett’s sitting down with the Wolf to discuss his personal journey in the restaurant industry—from his journey founding Hat Creek Burger Company to owning 60+ Zaxby’s. Hear Hat Creek Burger Company’s humble origin story—from starting as a food truck in 2008 to now having 26 brick-and-mortar locations, Drew shares the challenges and triumphs of scaling his business. He shares how building a strong restaurant management team and securing financing helped fuel his exponential growth. What are the unique dynamics of running both independent restaurants and franchise locations? And does Drew have plans to expand into other franchise brands or industries in the future? Tune in now to find out!   00:00:23 - From Food Truck to Restaurant Success 00:07:13 - Lessons Learned from Hat Creek's Expansion 00:08:10 - Growing Hat Creek to 26 Locations 00:15:12 - Expanding the Zaxby's Franchise Portfolio 00:18:23 - Scaling Hat Creek  00:20:37 - Building a Strong Restaurant Management Team 00:24:36 - Leveraging Seller Financing for Growth 00:28:56 - Franchise Friction: Running Own vs. Franchise 00:33:03 - Exploring New Franchise Opportunities and Industries 00:34:37 - New Builds vs. Acquisitions: Pros and Cons   Learn More About Zaxby’s: Website: https://www.zaxbys.com/franchise   Learn More About Hat Creek Burger Company: Website: https://hatcreekburgers.com/who-we-are   Follow Drew:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-gressett-96891621a/   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel. Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com. And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

You’ll never be able to operate 90+ franchises if your first franchise isn’t golden to begin with. Take it from Adam Saxton, operator of over 90+ McAlister’s Delis and co-CEO/Owner of the Saxton Group. With territories in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas, Adam chats with the Wolf about his unusual philosophy for franchise expansion, including a unique organic unit model development approach entailing zero acquisitions. With over 20 years in the fast-casual space, Adam reveals why he remains optimistic about the ROI potential in this industry and explains how his family's background in restaurant franchising influenced his decision to join McAlister's Deli. How has he managed to maintain slow and steady growth since his first bought unit in 1999? Discover the importance of building a strong culture and brand within your organization, and how investing in internal development leads to long-term success. Adam discusses the growth opportunities that come with expanding your franchise and the value of promoting from within. Plus, what are Adam’s perspectives on investment levels and the potential return on capital for first-time franchisees? Tune in now to find out!    00:00:00 - Locations in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas 00:00:30 - Adam Joins Family Restaurant Business 00:08:17 - Organic Growth Strategy of the Saxton Group 00:11:46 - Community Outreach Boosts McAlister's Brand 00:13:34 - Fostering Growth and Opportunity at McAlister’s 00:17:13 - Franchisees Expand with New Brands 00:18:45 - Saxton Group Acquires Jaggers 00:22:29 - Staying Optimistic in the Fast Casual Industry 00:26:49 - Investment Returns for New Franchisees 00:32:54 - Room to Grow for McAlister’s   Follow Adam:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamgsaxton/   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel.   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Buckle up because the Wolf is taking another stab at your best Twitter questions in this solo question-and-answer pod. Should you be able to negotiate a franchise agreement? If so, how much of an agreement is negotiable, or are most franchise agreements a take-it-or-leave-it proposition?  Then the Wolf uncovers his #1 recommendation for back-office franchisee solutions (hint: it’s a software that’s near and dear to his heart), before dissecting the differences between chains and franchises.   Plus, who will win the Nashville Chicken Wars? Or do all chicken franchises come out the loser if the market has hit its peak saturation point?    Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel.   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

The Wolf chats with french fry master, Lucas Mitchell, a successful entrepreneur and franchisee of Five Guys, to discuss the ins and outs of scaling a franchise business. From building strong relationships with franchisees to managing shiny object syndrome, Lucas shares valuable insights and lessons learned along his journey. How did Lucas go from owning five stores to over 20? What were the challenges and rewards that came with his rapid growth? He details his unique strategies for managing debt covenants and explains how he leveraged specific relationships to fuel his franchise’s expansion. Hear how Lucas has kept his composure and avoided the temptation of shiny object syndrome to maintain a consistent relationship with Five Guys. He reveals his philosophy for scaling a sustainable organization and tells the Wolf how he managed to escape with his sanity intact while growing Five Guys.  Lucas also explores why continuous learning and evolution were essential to his role as a leader. Find out how he has leveled up his leadership skills and implemented guidelines to run his business effectively. Plus, get a glimpse into Lucas's future plans for growth, including the potential for expanding into other brands.    Paylocity offers the only modern HR and payroll solution that makes real-time recommendations to drive better business outcomes. Paylocity is the modern, all-in-one platform that makes HR and payroll easier — so you can focus on your employees. We’ll make onboarding faster, recruiting smarter, and compliance simpler. To learn more visit https://paylocity.com/restaurants.   00:06:13 - Leveraging Relationships to Buy Locations 00:12:12 - Investment Strategy: Equity vs. Debt 00:16:04 - Navigating Debt Covenants in Restaurant Ownership 00:18:43 - Understanding Debt Covenants in Franchising 00:23:25 - Combining Five Guys with Another Brand 00:25:40 - Managing Shiny Object Syndrome as an Entrepreneur 00:31:18 - Avoid Entrepreneurial Mistakes: Focus First 00:34:57 - Building Relationships Key to Franchise Success 00:41:37 - Evolving Leadership Skills in Business   Follow Lucas:  Twitter: https://twitter.com/lmitchellhq?lang=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lmitchellhq/   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel.   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

The Wolf’s bringing it back to another solo episode, and this time he’s got all of Twitter wondering why he’s been MIA for so long. He explains where he’s been all this time, and how his game-changing franchising platform, Krokit has been keeping him busy these past few months. Plus, remember how the Wolf called out Nothing Bundt Cakes as an important franchise to keep your eye on? Well, this week, he’s got another franchise to pay attention to and it’s *definitely* one you’re not expecting. And later, with Games Day Men’s Health testosterone clinics claiming they’ve sold over 700+ units, what exactly does it mean if they’ve only managed to open 100 units thus far? The Wolf breaks down some of the most common franchise marketing tactics brands use to lure prospective franchisees into the system before going over the basics incentive structure of the franchisor/franchisee relationship.   00:00 Milkshake Factory 06:00 Krokit 08:21 Game Day Men’s Health   Follow The Wolf: Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel.   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Loosen up. Literally. StretchLab is the Austin-based company helping others to increase performance and decrease joint pain. The Wolf chats with owner Steve Hitzemann about the fast-growing franchise’s rapid ascent to success. How did Steve dare to dream of a business model based on nothing more than stretching? Hear how Steve made the impossible possible, and how he’s making a two-membership franchise financially sustainable.  Is the stretching franchise just another fad? And if so, how has Steve prepared to compete in a potentially soon-to-be oversaturated market? From its customized one-on-one sessions to a unique approach to customized service with expertly trained flexologists, discover how StretchLab is revolutionizing the wellness industry with its approach to flexibility and overall well-being.  With six locations open, and more on the way, you won’t wanna miss hearing Steve’s insights on the value of simplicity, staffing, and scalability.     Paylocity offers the only modern HR and payroll solution that makes real-time recommendations to drive better business outcomes. Paylocity is the modern, all-in-one platform that makes HR and payroll easier — so you can focus on your employees. We’ll make onboarding faster, recruiting smarter, and compliance simpler. To learn more visit paylocity.com/restaurants.’ 00:00:50 - Stretch Lab: Revolutionizing Personalized Stretching 00:03:42 - Training and Connection Key for Flexologists 00:09:05 - StretchLab’s Services 00:13:08 - Creating a Scalable Fitness Program 00:17:05 - Staffing That’s Driven by Membership Base Strategy 00:26:49 - Expanding from One Studio to Six Stretch Labs 00:31:25 - Scaling a Growing Organization with Multiple Locations 00:40:38 - Market Saturation Concerns for Assisted Stretching   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel.   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

The Wolf’s taking a break from his normal podcasting format to break down the latest in franchising news this week. Is Orange Theory’s acquisition by Self Esteem Brands a good thing or a sign of impending doom? With Orange Theory’s numbers diminishing since the initial insanity of their boom, could this spell disaster or is it a shrewd business move? The Wolf also tackles Domino’s latest earnings announcement before trying his hardest not to become a total Crumbl apologist. He’s taking a hard look at the announcement of the franchise savant’s diminishing sales numbers and diving into whether or not a dessert franchise can ever truly be sustainable.  Will Crumbl find their steady state and buck the trend to become more than just another fledgling fad? Or is this the beginning of the end?   Paylocity offers the only modern HR and payroll solution that makes real-time recommendations to drive better business outcomes.   Paylocity is the modern, all-in-one platform that makes HR and payroll easier — so you can focus on your employees. We’ll make onboarding faster, recruiting smarter, and compliance simpler. To learn more visit paylocity.com/restaurants.   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel.   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!  

The Wolf is breaking it down solo for this special Q&A session, where he’s answering your most burning questions about the world of franchising.  What are the different strategies and considerations involved in owning one to two locations versus four to five locations? Are home services and non-brick-and-mortar franchises the place to hedge your franchising bets?  From the costs of hiring a fast food general manager to the best value propositions for aspiring entrepreneurs, The Wolf provides his most valuable insights and advice from his years of experience. The Wolf also addresses the excitement around pet-related franchises in 2024 and the importance of speaking to franchisees to get an accurate picture of the business. Plus, find out his best thoughts about industry red flags and how to avoid “snake oil” franchises. 00:00:00 - Investing in Profitable Franchises for Returns 00:01:48 – The Hype Around Home Service Brands 00:05:18 - Top Franchise Choices for Investment 00:06:37 - Overhead Comparison for Owning Multiple Locations 00:07:57 - Outsourcing and Hiring for Growth 00:11:36 - American Fast Food Franchise Saturation Concerns 00:18:33 - Exciting Pet Franchises in 2024 00:23:51 - Key Attributes for Successful Franchise 00:25:10 - Franchising Red Flags Paylocity offers the only modern HR and payroll solution that makes real-time recommendations to drive better business outcomes. Paylocity is the modern, all-in-one platform that makes HR and payroll easier — so you can focus on your employees. We’ll make onboarding faster, recruiting smarter, and compliance simpler. To learn more visit paylocity.com/restaurants. Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel. Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com. And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Eric Danver is the man who’s owned 100+ franchise locations over the course of his impressive career, including 58 Hand and Stone locations and 53 Philadelphia-based Papa John’s. He chats with the Wolf about his storied franchise career and the new challenges and opportunities the business presents in an ever-changing landscape.   From his humble beginnings in the pizza industry to building a successful portfolio of Papa John's and Hand and Stone franchises, Eric shares his insights on what it takes to thrive in the competitive food industry. Learn about the strategies and operational excellence that propelled his success and how he navigated the complexities of mergers and acquisitions. And later, he and the Wolf also talk about the ever-growing industry of pickleball and the new and unique franchise opportunities it presents. Is it possible Ace Pickleball is onto a future goldmine? Tune in to find out Eric’s true thoughts on the matter, and much, much more! Paylocity offers the only modern HR and payroll solution that makes real-time recommendations to drive better business outcomes.   Paylocity is the modern, all-in-one platform that makes HR and payroll easier — so you can focus on your employees. We’ll make onboarding faster, recruiting smarter, and compliance simpler. To learn more visit paylocity.com/restaurants.   00:00:00 - From Domino's to Papa John's 00:02:21 - Papa John's Dominates Philadelphia Pizza 00:05:12 - The Secrets to Successful Operations 00:09:34 - The Cost of Building a Papa John's Location 00:14:13 - From Food to Spas: Hand and Stone 00:22:28 - Building a Big Company: Roles and Responsibilities 00:23:40 - Maintaining Stability in Margins and Talent Acquisition 00:28:35 - Networking Tips for New Franchisees 00:34:23 - The Future of Ace Pickleball 00:39:42 - Ace Pickleball Expanding with New Locations 00:42:24 - The Benefits of a Membership   Find Out More About Hand and Stone: Website: https://www.fggspallc.com   Follow Eric:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdanver/   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel.   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Everyone wants to be the next Crumbl. But let’s face it—not every new and hot franchise can be the next Crumbl. Fads aren't always bad. But sometimes they can spell failure. So how can you protect yourself against becoming the next franchise fad failure? The Wolf chats with friend of the podcast and franchise consultant, Dru Carpenito about the franchise hype cycle and how to avoid the pitfalls of investing in oversaturated franchise markets.  What are the risks and rewards of investing in trending franchise brands? Is it worth the gamble or are the growing pains too much to overcome? Dru explains why finding the right operator is crucial and dissects the impact that copycat franchises can have on your business.  And later, the Wolf and Dru delve into the role of private equity in franchising, discussing the growing prominence of brokers and franchise sales organizations. Learn why paying due diligence when evaluating franchise opportunities is key, and how to spot companies who may not be forthright with their financial disclosures.  00:00:00 - The Franchise Hype Cycle: Oversaturation 00:02:33 - The Risk of Copycats in Franchising 00:09:57 - Navigating the Risks of Franchising 00:20:40 - Franchisees Need More Capital for Success 00:22:54 - Understanding Franchise Metrics: Key Takeaways 00:25:31 - The Rise of Franchise Fee Inflation 00:29:38 - The Reality of Franchising: No Passive Investment 00:35:20 - Finding Success in Home Service Franchises 00:42:03 - The Math Behind Home Services 00:47:21 - Culver's: A Responsible Approach to Franchising Paylocity offers the only modern HR and payroll solution that makes real-time recommendations to drive better business outcomes. Paylocity is the modern, all-in-one platform that makes HR and payroll easier — so you can focus on your employees. We’ll make onboarding faster, recruiting smarter, and compliance simpler. To learn more visit paylocity.com/restaurants. Follow Dru:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drucarpenito/ Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel. Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com. If you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

It’s time for the listeners to “Ask Me Anything”! When does a franchise restaurant become a viable investment? The answer may vary depending on factors such as the number of units and states involved, as well as an individual's risk appetite. Discover the key considerations that can help determine the right time to invest in a franchise. In this episode, The Wolf also shares his thoughts on the future of franchising, highlighting the food and beverage category as a major player. Find out which franchise category he is most bullish on. If you're interested in buying an emerging brand, dive in and learn what factors to consider to increase your chances of success.  00:00:02 - Key Factors to Evaluate Emerging Brands 00:01:57 - Building a Scalable Brand with Replica Operations 00:02:54 - Assessing the Financial Health of Franchise Brands 00:05:15 - Top Franchise Categories to Watch 00:08:36 - When Does a Franchise Restaurant Become a Viable Investment? 00:11:48 - The Relevance of Franchises in the Age of Information 00:12:59 - Defining and Protecting Territories for Franchise Concepts 00:18:53 - Identifying the Franchise with Highest Failure Rate Follow The Wolf: Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com. And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Join The Wolf as he sits down with John Valluzzo and his sons, Michael and Nick, to explore their reign of owning over 80+ McDonald's locations as they dive deep into the fascinating world of the iconic fast-food franchise.  The Valluzzos share their family's deep-rooted connection to McDonald's and explain their incredible journey to owning such a vast portfolio of locations.  Discover the secrets behind McDonald's renowned training programs, including the prestigious Hamburger University, and hear how they ensure consistent quality and service across their restaurants. Nick also discusses the challenges and rewards of being a franchisee, from navigating acquisitions and high barrier-to-entry costs to maintaining profitability in a rapidly changing industry.  Plus, what’s the real truth about that infamous ice cream machine that never works? Hear about McDonald’s innovative use of technology and data management to streamline operations and drive success. Whether you're a fan of McDonald's or interested in the world of franchising, you won’t want to miss these incredible insights into the inner workings of one of the most iconic brands in the world.    00:03:16 - The McDonald's Legacy: Continuing the Family Business 00:11:28 - Massive Growth Through Strategic Acquisitions 00:19:04 - Breaking into McDonald's: Is it Achievable? 00:22:52 - Inside the Training Program at McDonald's 00:29:52 - McDonald's Tech: Proprietary vs. Third Party 00:34:38 - McDonald's CEO Talks Rising Costs 00:39:38 - Success Stories of Former Employees 00:47:32 - The Truth About McDonald's Ice Cream Machines 00:51:51 - Efficient Maintenance Team Keeps Operations Running Smoothly 00:59:33 - Challenges of Passing on Family Businesses 01:06:02 - Early Riser Trio's Morning Routine   Learn More About Valluzzo Companies:  Website: https://valluzzocompanies.com   Follow the Valluzzo Brothers: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@valluzzo.brothers/ Nick’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-valluzzo/ Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelvalluzzo/ John’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-valluzzo-47a989b/   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

As 2023 draws to a close, we’re taking a step back to take a look at some of the best moments we’ve had here on Franchise Empires.  Over the last two years, the Wolf has had the chance to interview some incredible franchise players, and we’ve compiled some of the best, most impactful moments over the course of his entire run for this year-end retrospective. From capturing demand in the marketplace to thinking about how to invest in franchise unit models, these next six experts are a goldmine of wisdom that's bound to enrich your franchising journey as 2023 draws to a close. Get ready to glean from their expertise and elevate your understanding of the franchising landscape.  Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Meet Zach Beutler, the mastermind behind Horsepower Brands, a dynamo company dominating the home services franchise industry. With a portfolio of eight successful franchises, Zach shares his personal journey as a third-generation entrepreneur and the many valuable lessons he's learned along the way. How does Horsepower Brands combine incubation and acquisition strategies to transform underperforming concepts into thriving businesses? Zach reveals how Horsepower courts potential brands and sets them apart from the competition through the unique shared services model they offer, including call centers, marketing agencies, accounting firms, and data analytics. Zach also discusses the importance of finding great people and shares how Horsepower invested in its own recruiting company to ensure the success of its franchisees.  And stay tuned as later, he and the Wolf commiserate over the first-year lifecycle of a franchisee, with Zach breaking down exactly how effective business management can lead to long-term success.   00:00:00 - Entrepreneur Shares Story of Franchise Success 00:01:19 - From Livestock Auction to Beefy Commerce: The Horsepower Story 00:04:40 - From Bankruptcy to Franchise Success 00:09:09 - Avoid Costly Mistakes When Signing Leases 00:12:52 - Horsepower Acquires Successful Home Services Franchise 00:16:56 - The Benefits of Horsepower's Shared Services Model 00:23:20 - Identifying Industries for Incubation and Acquisition 00:29:03 - Building Wealth Through Strategic Acquisitions 00:30:50 - Setting Expectations for Franchisees Success 00:33:58 - Navigating the First Year as a Franchisee 00:36:09 - Achieving Business Goals with EOS 00:39:00 - Discover the Buzz Franchise Brands Learn More About Horsepower Brands:  Website: https://horsepowerbrands.com/#Sponsors   Follow Zach:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachery-beutler/   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

In this week’s ep, the Wolf’s chatting with Dan Giacomazzi and Artem Lopatchenko, two business partners in one of America’s fastest-growing home services franchises, Ace Handyman Services, about the benefits of having a franchising partner.  Discover Dan and Artem’s journey in expanding their franchise territory and learn about their favorite strategies for attracting new customers. How do they divide and conquer tasks to maximize efficiency? From marketing tactics to building trust with clients, Dan and Artem share valuable insights for growing a home services franchise. Plus, hear why beefing with your competition doesn’t always pay off—is it possible that your enemy may actually be your biggest ally?   00:01:04 - The Genesis of a Business Partnership 00:06:18 - Finding Complementary Ventures  00:12:27 - From Four to Five Territories: How Marketing Led to Expansion 00:13:54 - Building Trust for Local Home Services Brands 00:17:32 - The Connection Between Physical Stores and Online Business 00:24:01 - The Benefits of Having a Business Partner 00:26:32 - Starting a Venture: Partner or Solo? 00:33:17 - The Truth About Franchise Ownership 00:36:15 - Are You at Capacity? 00:37:40 - Expanding Home Services Business Vertically 00:45:00 - Residential vs. Commercial Business Split 00:45:52 - Starting and Scaling a Home Service Franchise with Ace Handyman Services   Follow Dan:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dgiacomazzi/   Follow Artem:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/artemlopatchenko/   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Who’s the brains behind one of the world’s most cutting-edge VR franchises? Step into the immersive world of Sandbox VR with The Wolf and its Founder/CEO, Steve Zhao. Steve explains how Sandbox VR revolutionized the entertainment industry by combining technology, community, and an incredible VR experience. From their state-of-the-art AI and computer vision technology to their commitment to removing barriers and fostering innovation, Steve shares the secrets behind Sandbox VR's success. Learn how they’re creating a seamless and immersive experience for customers by utilizing both internal software tools and third-party vendors to drive franchise development. Plus, Steve breaks down Sandbox VR’s future potential for a membership-based model and reveals how its community-driven environment has paved the way for it to become a major player in the franchise industry.   Join the fastest-growing VR franchise in the world and be among the first to bring premium immersive VR experiences to your community. Invest in the future of entertainment by visiting franchise.sandboxvr.com. 00:01:09 - Bootstrapped Mobile Gaming Company Founder Explores VR 00:03:49 - Revolutionizing Gaming with Sandbox VR 00:06:03 - Company's Evolution: From Licensing to Ownership 00:07:20 - Franchising Plans Pre and Post-COVID 00:11:02 - Comparing Corporate and Franchise Stores 00:16:47 - Exploring Revenue Models in Business 00:23:08 - Franchise Management Software: Build or Outsource? 00:25:05 - Future Plans for Immersive VR 00:26:45 - Learn About Sandbox VR Online   Follow Steve: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zhaosaurus/   Follow The Wolf: Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   And for exclusive insider content, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel.   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!  

Magen Bynum, the founder of Magnolia Soap and Bath, drops by to chat with the Wolf about how she turned a plant-based alternative for sensitive skin into a franchise empire. Discover the inspiring story behind Magen’s creation of Magnolia Soap and how her daughter’s desire for a chemical-free solution led to her franchising journey.  With plans to open 50+ locations in 2024, Magnolia’s rapid expansion makes it a formidable appointment in the plant-based alternative space. From eliminating harmful chemicals to using natural ingredients like mica for coloring, Magen describes why Magnolia Soap prioritizes the well-being of its customers from head to toe and how she turned a one-time passion project into franchise gold.  Plus, how does Magnolia Soap balance its direct-to-consumer efforts with franchisee success? And how does its unique experiential marketing approach set it up for long-term franchise growth? Tune in to find out more!   00:00:07 - Creating a Plant-Based Alternative Soap 00:05:49 - Eliminating Red Dyes for Allergies 00:07:50 - From Local Retail to Nationwide E-commerce 00:11:17 - The Strategy Behind Magnolia Soap's Corporate Stores 00:14:54 - The Journey of Franchising Success 00:17:18 - Magnolia's Grassroots Marketing and Handmade Products 00:23:25 - Balancing Direct-to-Consumer and Franchising 00:28:36 - Franchise Store Count Doubles in a Year 00:32:04 - Magnolia Plans 50 New Locations in 2024 00:34:30 - Online Presence of Magnolia Soap   Learn More About Magnolia Soap and Bath: Website: https://www.magnoliasoapandbath.com/pages/franchise LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/magnolia-soap-and-bath-company/   Follow Magen:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/magenbynummagnoliasoap/   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Join The Wolf as he sits down with Aaron Harper, the CEO of Rolling Suds, one of the fastest-growing power-washing franchises in the country.  Aaron reveals how Rolling Suds scaled to 59 units in 16 states since February of this year, and explains the game-changing strategies and systems that contributed to Rolling Suds’ overwhelming success. From their comprehensive training program to their early focus on customer satisfaction, learn about the key factors that have set Rolling Suds apart in the power washing industry. Aaron also shares his insights on how to create responsible franchise growth, explains why aligning sales and operations is vital to franchise success, and details the unique opportunities the service franchise industry presents to entrepreneurs. To learn how franchisors can create a better environment to support the growth of their franchisees, this is one episode you won’t want to miss!   00:02:59 - Uncovering Commonalities Among Successful Franchisees 00:03:45 - Scaling Secrets: Operations and Sales 00:07:35 - Aligning Expectations for New Franchisees 00:10:15 - Supporting Franchisees: When to Hire 00:13:14 - Franchise Success: Opening and Selling Units 00:18:35 - The Fastest Growing Power Washing Franchise 00:23:51 - The Risks of Buying Franchises 00:25:20 - Scaling Franchisees: Overcoming Employee Challenges 00:33:50 - Managing Expectations for Franchisees 00:38:52 - The Rise of Profitable Service Franchises 00:43:37 - Building the Biggest Franchise Power Washing Company 00:51:23 – Why Franchise Growth Requires High Capital 00:54:21 - The Core Tenets of Responsible Franchising   Learn More About Rolling Suds: Website: https://rollingsudsfranchise.com Follow Aaron:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-harper-998140125/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/RollingSudsCEO   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises    Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf   Website: https://www.krokit.com     Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Meet the first person to mass-market a factory-finished painting solution at the convenience of your home. Join The Wolf as he sits down with Carmelo Marsala, Founder and CEO of Spray-Net, to discuss the ins and outs of franchising and scaling a business. Carmelo shares his experiences and insights on the challenges of scaling a territory model, onboarding new franchisees, and the realities of making a franchise profitable. Carmelo explains how his Quebec-based business prepared for territory expansion in the United States and how Canadian franchise ownership differs from Stateside operations. Then, he breaks down how Spray-Net has managed to gain lasting traction by differentiating itself in the painting industry through its unique approach and proprietary software.  And stay tuned as the Wolf and Carmelo also discuss the benefits of partnering with franchise sales organizations and the importance of data in unlocking new possibilities for franchisees.   00:00:34 - From Soccer to Painting: The Transition and Motivation 00:02:03 - From Student Painting to Revolutionary Spray-Net 00:06:42 - Creating a Franchise with Patented Technology 00:14:32 - Expanding Franchise Opportunities in the US 00:18:04 - From Operations to Franchising 00:23:05 - Creating Custom Software for Home Services 00:27:12 - Outsourcing Digital Marketing for Franchisees 00:30:18 - Challenges of Scaling Franchise Territories 00:31:23 - Unlocking Franchisee Growth with Real-Time Data 00:40:39 - SprayNet Aims for 100 Million Dollars in 5 Years   Learn More About Spray-Net: Franchise Website: https://www.spraynetfranchise.com/launch-a-franchise Website: https://www.spray-net.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spray-net-inc/   Follow Carmelo: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmelomarsala/   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!  

Join The Wolf as he sits down with Dave Wood, the mastermind behind Mahana Fresh, a healthy bowl concept that’s taken the restaurant industry by storm. Discover the challenges and triumphs of opening three restaurants during the midst of a global pandemic, and how Mahana Fresh has adapted and thrived in the face of adversity. Dave discusses his journey from being a student at the University of North Carolina to managing a local Domino's store and how his experiences in the pizza industry shaped his approach to building Mahana Fresh. From the origins of the name Mahana Fresh to the brand's online presence and celebrity endorsement with NBA star Kyle Kuzma, Dave shares insights into the vision and values that drive his business. Tune in to learn why restaurants are a great opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs, and how Dave's experience as a Domino's franchisee prepared him for success.    00:00:29 - From Pizza Delivery to Franchise Success 00:08:57 - From Manager to Owner: The Path to Franchise Success 00:15:08 - Domino's Expansion: Managing Employee Headcount 00:19:06 - The Story Behind Domino's Rolex 00:23:25 - Healthy Bowl Concept Thrives Amidst Pandemic 00:30:24 - NBA Star Balances Basketball and Business 00:36:40 - The Growing Opportunity in Restaurants 00:43:57 - Where to Find Mahana Fresh Online   Learn More About Mahana Fresh:  Website: https://www.mahanafresh.com/franchise   Follow Dave: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-wood-9975a38/   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Join The Wolf as he sits down with Erik van Horn, host of "The Franchise Secrets Podcast," for a special crossover episode. In this lively conversation, they dish out some hot takes on the franchise industry and discuss the importance of transparency and financial literacy for franchisees. From the value of item 19s to the power of content marketing, Erick and The Wolf share their insights and experiences in the world of franchising. Discover why building a strong brand and providing valuable resources to franchisees are crucial for success. Plus, get a glimpse into Erik's journey as a media entrepreneur, and find out how he has grown his Twitter audience and newsletter following. Learn why content creation is addictive and how it can help elevate your franchise brand.   00:01:20 - Franchise Growth Through Media Strategies 00:09:08 - The Power of Partnering with Work Week 00:15:58 - Are Franchises Worth the Investment? 00:17:43 - The Value of Research in Content Creation 00:21:21 - Why Brands Hide Franchise Information 00:24:02 - The Importance of Profitability in Franchising 00:28:02 - Franchisors Use Regulation as Excuse 00:33:42 - How to Evaluate a Franchise Brand 00:38:47 - Finding Outliers in Your First Year 00:44:51 - Franchisors Neglecting Financial Education for Franchisees 00:51:02 - Where to Focus Your Energy in Social Media   Follow Erik’s Pod, “The Franchise Secrets Podcast” here.   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!

Join The Wolf as he sits down with Rich Moyer, the mastermind behind Hoppin’ Franchise Group, to discuss Hoppin’s unique self-serve taproom concept that aims to revolutionize the bar and restaurant industry.   Discover how Hoppin’ eliminates the headaches typically associated with owning a bar to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for customers…because honestly, who likes waiting for a bartender to pour their beer? Rich shares insights into the financials of running a bar or restaurant, including typical profit margins and cost of goods. Plus, learn why Rich and his team are seeking ideal candidates who are willing to take a leap of faith and join their franchise family. From their innovative technology to their focus on community partnerships, the Wolf is unraveling exactly how Hoppin’ is changing the game in the hospitality industry. Tune in for this valuable glimpse into what it takes to own a bar-based franchise.     00:00:54 - Hoppin’: The Ultimate Bar Owner's Solution 00:09:27 - From Construction to Ice Cream: The Profitable Journey 00:11:05 - The Benefits of Franchising a Business 00:13:18 - The Challenges of Franchising During COVID 00:16:38 - Exploring Growth Avenues in Franchising 00:19:20 - Impressive Revenue Growth for Construction Company 00:23:50 - Finding the Ideal Candidate for Emerging Franchises 00:26:18 - Building a Community with Local Partners 00:28:25 - Profit Margins in the Restaurant Industry 00:30:11 - Find the Hoppin’ Franchise Online   Learn More About Hoppin’:  Website: https://Hoppin’brandsfranchising.com   Follow Rich:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-m-02019551/   Follow The Wolf:  Newsletter: https://workweek.com/brand/the-wolf-of-franchises/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewolfoffranchises Twitter: https://twitter.com/franchisewolf Website: https://www.krokit.com   Are you a future franchise entrepreneur? Find all of the tools you need to launch, operate, and expand your franchise empire with the platform created by The Wolf himself, Krokit.com.   And if you’ve enjoyed listening to Franchise Empires, I’d be so grateful if you could drop me a 5-star review on Rate My Podcast. Thank you so much!