Afleveringen

  • 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!
     

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  • 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!

  • 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!

  • 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!