The Franchise Hot Seat Podcast with Dr. John P. Hayes - Director, Titus Center for Franchising
Internationally recognized speaker, personal business coach and Amazon best-selling franchise author Dr. John Hayes offers an honest look at everything involved in researching, evaluating and purchasing a franchise business. On this podcast, Dr. John P Hayes interviews Franchisors, Franchisees, and has solo episodes giving valuable advice in the Franchise Industry. Since 1979, John Hayes has worked in the franchise community as a consultant, franchisee and franchisor. He’s one of an elite group worldwide that has actually owned and operated franchises, including serving as CEO of a major American franchisor company, and advised franchisors and franchisees. He is the author of se...
He Quit His Corporate Job for Franchising?! - With Sal Majzoub
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes interviews Sal Majzoub on Franchise Hot Seat, discussing Majzoub's transition from corporate work to franchising and business brokerage. Majzoub shares his experience of being confined in a Dubai hotel during the COVID pandemic while earning a substantial six-figure salary. During this time, he researched about 50 franchises and multiple Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs), eventually choosing Transworld Business Advisors. Majzoub later took the master franchise for Quebec, but faced challenges in building awareness and income for 2-3 years. He then sold his share and relocated to Florida to work as an agent. Majzoub...
The Franchising Secret Most Entrepreneurs Miss - With Matthew Cancino
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes interviews Matthew Cancino, a Titus Center for Franchising graduate and former U.S. Marine, about his journey into the world of franchising. Cancino discovered franchising at Palm Beach Atlantic University, where he sought mentorship for his detailing business. His plans to attend fire school were disrupted by COVID, leading him to PBA where his entrepreneurial spirit and faith guided his decisions. Cancino's early consulting work led him to join the leadership team at Bright Pink. He also launched an app concept to scale local content, which eventually evolved into Candid, a...
Built a Franchise Business Straight Out of College - With Mitchell Nolan
DESCRIPTION:
Mitchell Nolan, a graduate of Palm Beach Atlantic University with an MBA and a focus on franchising, is the founder of consulting firm DJM Nolan and co-founder of Vetted, a company he established with Steve Lieber. Vetted's mission is to assess both franchisors and franchisees using five key principles derived from Junior Bridgeman. These principles include exceptional food and guest experience, simplicity of systems, robust labor and inventory control, outstanding marketing and operational systems, and positive unit economics. Nolan recounts the process of responding to a 60-page restaurant Request for Proposal (RFP) for...
Why Gen Z Is Ditching Corporate Jobs for Franchising - With Leanna Carlson and Ethan Stayte
DESCRIPTION:
The Franchise Hot Seat Podcast features an interview with Palm Beach Atlantic University students Leanna Carlson and Ethan Stayte, who are studying franchising at the university's Titus Center. Leanna, an international business, entrepreneurship, and franchising student, was inspired by her father's State Farm agency model and her aspiration to merge faith with business. Her focus is on international franchising, driven by her travel experiences and the potential of the global market. Ethan, a marketing major nearing graduation, chose PBA for its Christian community and franchising program. He has had several franchising-related marketing internships...
From Burger King to Panera to Academia: The Career Path No One Plans For - With Martha Flynn
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes, host of the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, interviews Martha Flynn, the new director of the Titus Center. Flynn shares her journey into franchising, which began unexpectedly at Burger King and evolved into various roles at Dunkin' and Panera. The discussion touches on the scarcity of formal franchising education and how Flynn mastered franchise law and operations. The importance of internships for students is also discussed. The conversation also explores the changing role of women in franchising, the advantages of an academic focus in franchising, and the unique opportunities this provides for...
What Most Franchisors Get Wrong About Growth - With Keith Gerson
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes, host of the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, converses with Keith Gerson, a member of the Titus Center Advisory Board and a veteran in the franchising industry. Keith shares his franchising journey, beginning with McDonald's, then owning a Mrs. Fields Cookies franchise, and finally becoming a franchise coach and executive. They delve into the challenges and opportunities in franchise development, the surprising deficiency in franchising education, and the urgent need to advocate for the franchise model. Keith stresses the significance of comprehending franchise disclosure documents, particularly financial representations in item 19, and effective...
Student Perspectives On Franchise Opportunities - With Haley Arruda and Sam Vander Heide
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes hosts Haley Arruda and Sam Vander Heide, Palm Beach Atlantic
University students, on the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, where they discuss their
studies in franchising at the Titus Center for Franchising. They explain their reasons
for choosing PBA and their academic paths, including their discovery of franchising.
Both students emphasize the significant role internships have played in shaping
their career goals, with plans to continue in the franchising field. They discuss the
difficulty of drawing more students to franchising programs and the crucial...
The Real Reason Graduates Struggle After College - With Dr John P. Hayes
DESCRIPTION:
In this episode, we dig into the growing question a lot of people are asking: is a
traditional college degree still worth it? The conversation explores the gap between
classroom theory and the real-world skills employers actually need, and why more
students are looking for alternative paths as tuition rises and frustration grows.
Dr. John P. Hayes shares how the Titus Center for Franchising at Palm Beach Atlantic
University is tackling this problem head-on. Founded through a gift from Ray Titus,
the program blends strong...
The #1 Reason Franchisees Fail (From a CPA Who Owns 3 Crumbl Stores) - With Natalya Hummer
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes interviews Natalya Hummer from FinaTech Accounting and Advisors, who also owns three Crumble Cookie franchises, in this episode of the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast. Natalya shares her experience as a CPA and her transition into the franchising world, highlighting the essential elements for franchisee success. They delve into the importance of comprehending business metrics, such as KPIs, and the difficulties new franchisees encounter when shifting from corporate roles. Natalya underscores the importance of recruiting the right team, being financially literate, and implementing a robust training system. She provides valuable insights on effectively controlling labor and...
From Teacher to Successful Franchisee - With Deean Ferrone
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes interviews Deean Ferrone on the Franchise Hot Seat, discussing her journey from being a teacher to becoming a successful franchisee of Pigtails & Crewcuts, a children's hair salon chain. Ferrone's transition to business ownership was sparked by the difficulties of virtual teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic. She and her husband conducted thorough research and due to fortunate circumstances, they were able to acquire three salons in just half a year. Ferrone emphasizes the value of her teaching skills in managing her business, the necessity of effective staffing and marketing, and the assistance...
Scaling Your Franchise with the Right Partners - With Shelly Sun Berkowitz
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes, host of Franchise Hot Seat, interviews Shelly Sun Berkowitz, founder of
BrightStar Care, a leading healthcare franchising company with over 400 units.
Shelly discusses her transition from accounting to healthcare franchising, and her
strategic partnership with Peack Rock Capital. She stresses the importance of
choosing the right private equity partners and the value of supportive relationships
within the franchising community. Shelly introduces her advisory initiative, Founder
to Founder, designed to assist founders in scaling their businesses and navigating
sales process...
The Future of Franchising with Franzy - With Alex Smereczniak
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes interviews Alex Smereczniak, the co-founder and CEO of Franzy, in the
Franchise Hot Seat Podcast. Alex presents Franzy as a comprehensive platform for
potential franchisees, likening it to 'Zillow for franchising.' The platform aggregates
vital data such as financials, consumer sentiments, and franchisee feedback. The
interview explores Alex's professional journey, from transforming a laundry service
into a franchise model to establishing Franzy. The conversation also discusses the
transition from being a franchisor to a franchise supplier, the integral role of AI...
The Potential of a Veteran Franchisee - Insights from Bob McCracken
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes, a franchising professor at Palm Beach Atlantic University and host of the
Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, converses with Bob McCracken, an Air Force and Air
National Guard veteran and Hot Head Burritos franchisee. They delve into why
veterans make exceptional franchisees, highlighting the discipline, meticulousness,
and plan-following abilities honed during military service. They also discuss the
Veterans Transition Franchise Initiative (VetFran), a program providing financial
benefits to veterans venturing into franchising, founded by Don Dwyer of the Dwyer
Group...
Legal Tips & Market Insights - With Rocky Reidel
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes, host of the Franchise Hot Seat, engages in a comprehensive discussion
with Schuyler "Rocky" Reidel, founder of the Reidel Law Firm, on various pressing
and contentious topics in the franchising industry. They emphasize the crucial role of
specialized legal advice in franchising, particularly during a government shutdown
that affects SBA loans. Rocky underscores the importance for franchisees to
comprehend their responsibilities and limitations within franchise agreements, and
the significance of thoroughly understanding the Franchise Disclosure Document
(FDD). The convers...
Tips and Insights Into Franchising - With Jack and Jill Johnson
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes hosts Jack and Jill Johnson from Franchise Insiders on the Franchise Hot
Seat Podcast. The Johnsons' franchising journey began with Jack's father founding
Home Care Assistance after a franchise rejection, which evolved into a successful
family business. As franchise consultants, they guide others through the complex
franchising world. Key topics include the necessity of thoroughly evaluating
franchises, consulting with current franchise owners, and understanding the
commitment needed for franchise success. They highlight home services and
healthcare franchises as solid c...
Aligning Employees to Their Strengths - With Monica Feid
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes, in the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, underscores the significance of
matching employees with roles that complement their strengths to enhance
productivity and avoid disengagement. He references studies from Gallup and the
Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) that reveal a large number of
employees feeling underutilized and the substantial economic impact of
disengaged workers. Monica Feid, COO of Thunderly Marketing, is featured in this
episode, where she presents a case study on repositioning a discontented employee
to a role mo...
Bloomin' Blinds' Growth Journey - With Kristopher Stuart
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes interviews Kristopher Stuart, Chief Information Officer of Blooming
Blinds, on the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast. Stuart shares his accidental entry into
franchising while seeking improved business opportunities. He traces the growth of
Blooming Blinds from a family-owned retail business to a thriving franchise with 86
franchisees across 158 territories. Stuart discusses the pros and cons of running a
family business, the critical role of selecting the right franchisees, and the
continuous learning process that has helped refine their business model. He
empha...
How Franchising Transformed My Career - With Mary Thompson
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes interviews Mary Thompson, CEO of BNI and chair of the International
Franchise Association's Board of Directors, who shares her journey from the Marine
Corps to franchising via a company called Cookies by Design. Thompson highlights
the importance of franchising in developing her business skills and its
transformative impact on her career. She discusses her career progression, including
roles at Mr. Rooter and the Dwyer Group, and emphasizes the importance of value
alignment in franchising. Thompson provides insights into the importance of
Creating Effective Marketing Strategies - With Jack Monson
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes, host of the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, interviews Jack Monson, Chief
Growth Officer at Thunder Lee Marketing and host of the Social Geek podcast. They
delve into Monson's marketing and client acquisition roles, his franchising journey,
and the significance of fostering enduring relationships in the franchise sector. The
discussion encompasses effective marketing tactics, the use of social media
platforms like LinkedIn, and the importance of content creation for franchise growth.
Monson provides insights into the difficulties of generating and nurturing franch...
Risks, Rewards, and Legal Advice - With Alaina B. Karsten
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes, host of Franchise Hot Seat, engages in a detailed discussion with Alaina
B. Karsten from McDonald Hopkins, a professional with significant experience in
advising franchisors and franchisees and handling litigation. The conversation
revolves around the intricacies and potential risks associated with franchising,
underlining the necessity of carefully examining franchise agreements and fully
comprehending the long-term commitments and responsibilities they entail. Alaina
underscores the importance of franchisees performing due diligence, seeking legal
counsel, and fully understanding their contracts, particularly in rela...
From News Reporter to Franchise Mogul - With John Brice
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes, host of Franchise Hot Seat, interviews former TV news reporter John
Brice, who transitioned into a successful franchisee and is now preparing to become
a franchisor. Brice's introduction to franchising came through a family friend who
owned a McDonald's franchise. This sparked his interest and led him to owning eight
McDonald's restaurants. He later became an area developer for Firehouse Subs and
the largest U.S. franchisee of Pro Shred Security. Brice discusses the challenges and
rewards of franchise ownership, includ...
Smart Funding Strategies - With Shay Kleinschmidt
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes, host of Franchise Hot Seat, interviews Shay Kleinschmidt, Vice President
of Funding at Fran Fund, a company based in Fort Worth, Texas, that provides
funding solutions to franchisees nationwide. Kleinschmidt discusses the changing
franchising landscape, stressing the importance of early and tailored funding
strategies. She also highlights the role of AI in enhancing lending processes,
including a lender match system that matches client profiles with appropriate
lenders. The discussion encompasses various funding products such as SBA loans,
the rollove...
Empowering Women in Business - With Alesia Visconti
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes interviews Alesia Visconti on Franchise Hot Seat, where she discusses
her transition from corporate America to franchising, a move sparked by
disillusionment. Visconti, owner of Fran Serve and author of 'The Pink Tsunami:
Women's Rise in Franchising', highlights the lack of awareness about franchising
opportunities, especially for women. She underscores the variety of roles within
franchising, not limited to being a franchisee, but also including franchise
consultants and suppliers. The conversation covers the changing franchising
landscape, the significance of inte...
The 3Natives Story - With Anthony Bambino
DESCRIPTION:
Anthony Bambino, the founder and CEO of 3Natives, shares his journey from a
traveling salesman to the owner of a successful acai cafe franchise in Florida on the
Franchise Hot Seat. He discusses the transformation of 3Natives from a single juice
bar to a rapidly expanding franchise with 48 stores and more under development.
Bambino talks about his experiences with franchising, the initial struggles, the
significance of company culture, and the importance of finding the right franchisee
fit. He also emphasizes the value of men...
Success, Support & Community in Franchising - With Madalina Iordache
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes interviews Madalina Iordache, founder of Bright Pink Agency, on the
Franchise Hot Seat Podcast. They explore Iordache's transition from Romania to the
United States, her journalism career, and her shift into the franchising industry.
Iordache recounts her initial experiences in the U.S., her introduction to the
franchising industry in 2008, and her substantial contributions to brands such as
Puro Clean. The discussion emphasizes the significance of culture, community, and
support in the franchising industry, drawing comparisons with non-franchise
busines...
Real Estate in Retail Franchising - With Larry Strain
DESCRIPTION:
Dr. John Hayes interviews Larry Strain, Chief Development Officer of Retro Fitness, in
the Franchise Hot Seat episode, discussing the complexities of real estate in retail
franchising. Larry shares his three-decade experience in retail development,
highlighting the changes brought about by e-commerce giants like Amazon. He
underscores the growing significance of service-based retailers, particularly fitness
centers, and the real estate challenges they encounter, such as competition for
space and parking needs. Larry points out the crucial role of franchisors in
support...
Why I Left Finance For This: Insights and Opportunities - With Fred Fry
DESCRIPTION:
In this episode of the Franchise Hot Seat, host John Hayes interviews Fred Fry, Vice
President of Franchise Development for 16 Handles. Fred shares his career journey
from banking and finance to the franchise industry, highlighting how he discovered
franchising through a friend at church after relocating to Texas. He previously
worked with HTO and Shipley Donuts, where he played key roles in their significant
growth. The episode dives into the appeal of franchising, the opportunities for
financial and personal growth it offers, and th...
The Franchise Model That Actually Works - Expert Insights with Aaron Rose
DESCRIPTION:
The podcast guest is Aaron Rose, a graduate of Palm Beach Atlantic University and the founder of Fran Partners, a recruitment agency specializing in franchisees. Rose discusses his journey and how his education in franchising prepared him for roles in different franchise companies before he established his own. He identifies a gap in the market for hiring support focused on franchises, particularly for mid-level roles, and outlines the services provided by Fran Partners. Rose talks about the importance of networking and soft skills for college graduates entering the workforce, the specific hiring challenges faced b...
Master the Art of International Franchising - With Bill Edwards
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes, the host of Franchise Hot Seat, interviews Bill Edwards, a specialist in international franchise development. Edwards discusses the current international franchising environment, highlighting the influence of political sensitivities and tariffs. He underscores the necessity for franchises to be profitable domestically before contemplating overseas expansion, warning that international market entry requires substantial time, financial resources, and senior management commitment. Edwards details the process of identifying and qualifying licensees in foreign countries, the importance of robust training and support systems, and the various associated costs. He also emphasizes the need to select the right markets and comprehend...
Boost Your Franchise Success with Effective Messaging Strategies - With Jimi Gibson
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes interviews Jimi Gibson on effective messaging strategies for franchisees and franchisors. Gibson highlights the power of storytelling, curiosity, and emotional engagement in capturing audience attention and enhancing communication. He uses a magic trick to demonstrate the release of trust, curiosity, and satisfaction chemicals in the brain, drawing parallels to how marketing messages should work. The conversation also covers the significance of targeted advertising, especially on social media, and ways to make content engaging and visible. Gibson suggests using specific, human-centered stories and clear, curiosity-driven messaging. He underscores the importance of aligning content with audience needs...
Income Potential & Networking Secrets - With Roy Assad
DESCRIPTION:
Roy Assad, franchisor of Network Lead Exchange (NLX), discusses his journey from being a top franchisee to owning the company. He talks about his diverse background, including successful stints in insurance sales and various business ventures, which led him to the franchise industry. Assad emphasizes the benefits of franchising, such as the turnkey nature of a good franchise, the potential for substantial income, and the importance of sales skills. He provides an in-depth explanation of NLX's networking model, which is centered on exclusive business groups that foster referrals and relationships. Assad also outlines the responsibilities and success...
The Most Surprising and Successful Franchises You've Never Heard About - With Randy Cross
DESCRIPTION:
John, the host of the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, interviews Randy Cross, a Fish Window Cleaning franchisee and president. Randy narrates his franchising journey which began in 2002 when he met a franchise consultant while working at a technology firm. He dispels misconceptions about franchising, explains the franchisee process, and stresses the importance of adhering to established systems. Randy highlights the crucial role of royalty fees in supporting and promoting growth. He shares his early franchise experiences in Grand Rapids, Michigan, his dedication to the Fish system, and his transition from a hands-on operator to an absentee owner...
From Military Service to Franchising - With Victor Ulibarri
DESCRIPTION:
In this podcast, John interviews Victor Ulibarri, an Air Force veteran turned franchisee of Ace Handyman Services. Victor shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, detailing how a Boots to Business class sparked his interest in franchising. He discusses the challenges and advantages of franchising, particularly for veterans through programs like VetFran. Victor emphasizes the importance of brand recognition, discipline, and the support of a robust business plan. He also highlights his success strategy, from finding the right team to the significance of networking and marketing. Overall, the podcast underscores the synergy between military discipline and...
From Refugee to Franchise Success: Hao Lam's Inspiring Journey - With Hao Lam
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes, the host of the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, interviews Hao Lam, a successful franchisor with a riveting tale of survival and entrepreneurship. Lam, a Vietnam escapee, narrates his remarkable transition from being a refugee to a prosperous franchisor. He also talks about his book, 'From Bad to Worse to Best in Class,' and how his past experiences influence his dedication to education and franchising. Lam shares his struggles, including near-death starvation at sea and overcoming illiteracy, and his journey of rebuilding his life in North America. He provides insight into the development of his e...
Why Franchising Isn’t for Everyone - Expert Insights with Mark Schnurman
DESCRIPTION:
John and Mark Schnurman, author of 'The Perfect Franchise,' discuss the intricacies of franchising in this podcast. They explore the typical paths people take into franchising, including Mark's personal journey to becoming a franchise consultant. They caution that franchising isn't suitable for everyone, given the financial and commitment requirements. Mark stresses the need for potential franchisees to honestly evaluate their skills and whether a franchise will enhance their lives. The conversation delves into the process of vetting franchise candidates, the misunderstandings about absentee ownership, and the critical role of an owner's dedication. They also tackle the...
What They Don’t Tell You About Franchising - With Keith Miller
John Hayes hosts Keith Miller on the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast. Miller is a representative of the Franchisee Advocacy Consulting Group, advocating for franchisees, not franchisors. He has led several franchisee advocacy groups, including the American Association of Franchisees and Dealers, the Coalition of Franchise Associations, and the North American Association of Subway Franchisees. Miller and his wife, Karen, have been Subway franchisees since 1988.
Miller is respected by peers, adversaries, the International Franchise Association, and franchisors. He advocates for franchisees, which he points out, are the largest investor group in franchising but have the weakest voice. Hayes...
Building a Successful Franchise Empire - With Charles Bonfiglio
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes' podcast guest is Charles Bonfiglio, the entrepreneur behind Tint World, a South Florida-based business. Bonfiglio shares his journey from being a young entrepreneur who moved to Florida to start a business in the aftermarket accessory world to becoming a successful franchise owner. He faced initial difficulties in securing a lease and a loan due to the lack of an established brand. However, a family member introduced him to the concept of franchising through Meineke Discount Mufflers. Bonfiglio then applied to Meineke, got approved, and opened his first store in Hallandale Beach, Florida. The power of...
Inside the World’s Largest Franchise Group with Greg Flynn
DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes interviews Greg Flynn, the creator of the Flynn Group, which operates seven iconic brands across 44 states and three countries. Flynn discusses his motivation for growing his franchise empire, emphasizing that growth equals opportunity in the Flynn Group. He shares that the company experiences 30 percent annualized growth and employs over 75,000 team members across nearly 3,000 units. Flynn explains his journey into franchising, which started with a background in real estate and a friend's restaurant concept called World Wraps. He also shares how his father's ownership of two Burger Kings influenced his understanding of franchising. Flynn's company operates...
Master the Art of Work-Life Integration - With James Carey
DESCRIPTION:
James Carey, Director of Franchise Development for Preservan, discusses his views on work-life balance and the concept of work-life integration. Carey shares his experience of struggling with work-life balance during his 30-year career in corporate America, and how he found the concept of work-life integration more appealing and practical. He explains that work-life integration allows him to be a proud dad and a proud franchise and territory developer for Preservan simultaneously, and enables him to be flexible with his time and responsibilities.
Carey shares his approach to work-life integration with prospective franchisees, explaining that it a...
From Air Force to Franchisee - With Jonathan Lippincott
DESCRIPTION:
Jonathan Lippincott, a franchisee of 7 Brew Coffee, shares his journey from owning a Planet Fitness franchise to his current role. Initially, he pursued a degree in exercise science with plans to apply to the Air Force, inspired by his father, a fighter pilot and later a Delta Airlines pilot. However, he realized he was competing against highly accomplished individuals for Air Force pilot slots. While working at a hospital and managing a fitness center, he connected with a group of men at a church in Conway, Arkansas. They worked out together at a new gym, 10 Fitness. Intrigued...
