Unemployable with Jeff Dudan

Building a Winning Franchise System Insights from Jeff Dudan & FRANdata’s Edith Wiseman Start your franchise journey today — grab a free copy of Jeff Dudan’s book Discernment by clicking the link below and visit HomefrontBrands.com to learn how to build a legacy through franchising. In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, Jeff sits down with Edith Wiseman, President of FRANdata, to reveal what truly defines a great franchisor — from emerging brand risks and rewards to leadership, culture, and franchisee alignment. Discover how top franchisors build lasting success and what to look for when evaluating a franchise system...

You’re Using AI Wrong (Do This Instead) Geoff Woods on ChatGPT and AI with Jeff Dudan #226 You’re probably using AI wrong — and it’s costing you time, focus, and real business growth. In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, Jeff sits down with Geoff Woods, Co-Founder of The One Thing with Gary Keller and Jay Papasan, former Chief Growth Officer at Jindal Steel and Power, and author of The AI-Driven Leader. Geoff reveals why most people are majoring in the minors with AI — focusing on low-value tasks instead of high-impact strategy. He shares the CRIT Framework (Context, R...

Private equity isn’t what it used to be. In this conversation, Jeff Dudan and Patrick Galleher reveal how smart capital transformed from “barbarians at the gate” to strategic partners helping franchisors grow, scale, and build lasting wealth. If you’re building a brand worth buying—or planning your exit—this conversation is essential. 

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 Boxwood Partners

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What if the words you use every day are quietly deciding your success? In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, we’re joined by one of the most powerful communicators on the planet — Phil M. Jones, the legendary author of Exactly What to Say and one of the world’s most in-demand speakers and sales trainers. Phil has taught millions of people across 59 countries how to transform results in business, relationships, and leadership — simply by mastering the language of influence. From boardrooms to living rooms, Phil shows how the right words, spoken with intention, can change everything — your income, yo...

Welcome back to Unemployable with Jeff Dudan—it’s Franchise Friday! In this episode, Jeff explains why showing up at conferences, conventions, and industry events can supercharge your franchise success. From Homefront Brands’ annual Homecoming Convention to the IFA Conference and regional franchise expos, Jeff reveals how proximity, preparation, and follow-through turn simple handshakes into game-changing relationships. He shares the mindset and tactics that helped him grow from a first-time attendee to an industry leader—plus how one connection can alter the entire trajectory of your business. 🎯 You’ll learn: Why proximity equals power in franchising How to prepare for a confere...

In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, Jeff sits down with Patrick Galleher, Managing Partner at Boxwood Partners, one of the leading investment banks in franchising with over $7 billion in completed transactions. Patrick shares his insider perspective on selling a business the right way—from running a proper process and attracting private equity, to avoiding costly legal and financial mistakes that crush valuations. They also break down how private equity has evolved, why top firms like KKR, Blackstone, and Riverside are moving aggressively into franchising, and how franchise owners can prepare for a life-changing exit—whether as franchisors or m...

If you’re paying attention — something BIG is happening. Franchise buyers aren't looking for a “job you own” anymore. Today’s entrepreneurs are: ✅ Building assets ✅ Leveraging systems ✅ Thinking like investors And the smartest builders? They’re moving into property service franchises. For 35 years — from scaling a national restoration company to franchising 240+ locations — I’ve seen what thrives in the BEST and WORST of times. Property services win. Every. Single. Cycle. Here’s what makes them the ultimate business builder’s model: 🔥 Non-discretionary demand (needs-based, not trends) 🔥 Light CapEx (no multimillion-dollar buildings required) 🔥 Recurring revenue you can predict 🔥 Scalable inside a protected territory 🔥 Cash flow from d...

In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, Jeff sits down with Ellen Rohr — industry icon, financial educator, and co-founder of Zoom Drain, former president of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, and current executive with ServiceTitan. Ellen shares her 40-year journey from cleaning up her husband’s plumbing business to leading multi-million-dollar brands that transformed the trades. 💡 She explains why most service companies fail not from inefficiency — but from being underpriced — and how confidence, clarity, and self-esteem drive true profitability. 💬 What You’ll Learn: Why “there’s no operational fix to being underpriced.” How self-esteem and pricing are deeply connected in business. The Great Ga...

In this Franchise Friday edition of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, Jeff sits down with Tommy Ryan, Chief Development Officer at HomeFront Brands, to unpack the real truths behind franchising — from mindset and timing to community and leadership. Tommy has helped thousands of franchise owners build lasting success. He’s seen what works, what fails, and what separates great franchisees from the rest. In this episode, you’ll hear: ✅ Why timing and mindset are everything when joining a franchise ✅ What makes a great franchise candidate (and what disqualifies one) ✅ The #1 mistake new franchisees make — and how to avoid it ✅ Why community and pu...

Franchising expert Mark Siebert, founder of iFranchise Group, joins Jeff Dudan on Unemployable to reveal what makes a franchise truly scalable — and why franchising remains the most powerful wealth-creation model for small business owners. With 40 years of experience advising over 500 brands — including McDonald’s, Subway, and Ace Hardware — Mark shares the insider checklist for determining if your concept is ready to franchise, what it really costs to grow, and why discipline, leadership, and sound economics separate the winners from the failures. They explore: The 3 criteria every franchise must meet before scaling Why management quality outweighs concept quality Common traps new fran...

Welcome back to Franchise Fridays on the Unemployable Podcast with Jeff Dudan — where we break down the mindset, systems, and leadership that make franchise owners succeed. Today’s guest is Michael O’Driscoll, President of Franchising and COO at Homefront Brands, with 38 years of experience leading franchise systems across four continents. From building his career in Australia’s largest residential construction franchise to launching global brands in transportation, banking, and home services, Michael has helped tens of thousands of entrepreneurs succeed in franchising. In this episode, Jeff and Michael discuss: What truly separates good franchise owners from great ones The bigg...

What if people trusted you more than your brand? In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, Jeff sits down with Brooke Budke — a cancer survivor, former President of Title Boxing Club, and now the Founder & CEO of Momentum Brands, a fractional CMO firm helping emerging franchise brands grow through authentic personal branding, not paid ads. Brooke shares why 80% of consumers would rather follow the founder than the brand, the psychology behind trust in the post-COVID marketplace, and how leaders can use platforms like LinkedIn to build real authority. They also unpack the future of search, the rise of AI...

Avoid These Mistakes as a New Franchise Owner Franchise Fridays with The Designery's Casey Ridley On this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, I sit down with Casey Ridley, President of The Designery, to talk about the journey from a mom-and-pop surplus store to building a fast-growing franchise brand with over 40 locations. We cover: Why franchising gives people time freedom and community impact The biggest mistakes new franchisees make (and how to avoid them) The key traits of successful franchise owners Misconceptions about franchising and what really matters The role of culture in making a franchisor great Trends shaping...

Erin King joins Jeff Dudan on Unemployable to reveal why energy—not time or money—is the ultimate edge in business and life. From building a top social media agency to conducting the world’s largest research study on human energy, Erin shares how to unlock your “energy instinct,” lead with clarity, and avoid burnout while building a bold future. Erin is an award-winning entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and author of You’re Kind of a Big Deal. She created the Energy Exam to help leaders and teams discover their vibe and tap into peak performance. 👉 Take Erin’s Energy Exam 📖 Learn more...

Franchising works when franchisees are at the center. In this Franchise Friday, I sit down with Homefront Brands’ Chief Legal Officer to talk FDDs, legal guardrails, and the real reasons some owners scale while others stall. We cover the traits of top performers (intuition, smarts, grit), the biggest misconception (“it’s easy”), why private equity is moving to the franchisee side, and how culture and values beat shortcuts. If you’re on the fence, ask yourself one question: Do you trust who you’re going into business with? Learn more at HomefrontBrands.com. Grab my book Discernment: The Business Athlete’s Re...

What does it really take to push past every limit life throws at you? In this powerful episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, I sit down with world-record mountain climber, champion wrestler, and New York Times bestselling author Kyle Maynard. Born without arms and legs, Kyle has summited Kilimanjaro and Aconcagua, fought in jiu-jitsu world championships, built thriving businesses, and inspired millions. We talk about: Building grit and mental toughness when the odds say quit The hidden power of environment and who you choose to compete with Turning obstacles into opportunities—from sports to startups Lessons from extreme climbs, co...

Franchise Friday goes inside the mindset of a decorated Army special-operations veteran turned franchise president. Jeff Dudan sits down with Keven Elwood, President of Window Hero, to explore how military discipline translates to business freedom and why franchising is a natural path for veterans and driven entrepreneurs. Keven shares: Lessons from 20 years in Army special operations How a single LinkedIn post led him to buy—and grow—a home services franchise Why systems, culture, and community separate great franchisors from good ones The mental shift veterans and career professionals must make to own a business How Homefront Brands supports owne...

On today’s Unemployable, we tackle the hard stuff: why cancer remains our biggest health challenge, why water quality may define the next global conflict, how outbreaks re-enter the U.S. (measles, dengue, bioterror), what COVID actually taught us, and where AI and genomics help—or create new risks. Along the way we talk access to care, compounding vs. brand-name drugs, GLP-1s (Ozempic/Wegovy), and the habits that really move the needle: sleep, strength, hydration, and walking with purpose. My guest is a former U.S. Assistant Secretary for Health and four-star admiral in the U.S. Public Heal...

If you’re on the fence about franchising—or expanding your portfolio—this one’s for you. We break down who actually wins in franchising, the real traits of top owners, why “required service” beats “sexy concept,” and how to play the long game with guardrails, data, and community. Michael Wagner, president of Roof Scientist at Homefront Brands, joins me to unpack (kidding 😉) the practical stuff: following the model, being the local face of your brand, building teams without drowning in tasks, and picking categories that are resilient, high-margin, and Amazon-proof. We also talk AI/tech in the customer journey, what great...

Family-First Wealth Through Franchising : Franchise Secrets with Erik Van Horn Franchising from the ranch. 🌾 In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, Erik Van Horn—multi-unit franchisee, franchisor, advisor at Front Street Equity Partners, and host of Franchise Secrets—shares the real playbook: building wealth as a franchisee and franchisor, timing exits, avoiding emerging-brand pitfalls, and why AI in franchising is the next unfair advantage. We cover family-first living in rural Spearfish, South Dakota, mastermind leverage, KPIs that actually move revenue, and the categories poised to surge (pets, health & wellness, voice agents, and more). Whether you’re exploring your first ter...

What if the secret to unlocking your business potential—and your life—was embracing the very thing you’ve been told to hide? In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, globally recognized entrepreneur, author, and thought leader Frankie Russo shares his philosophy of Love Your Weird. From losing it all in the 2008 crash, to rebuilding through imagination, innovation, and authenticity, Frankie reveals how to break free from stagnation and fuel limitless growth. Together, Jeff and Frankie explore: Why stagnation kills businesses and how to escape it The “Infinity Growth Loop” for continuous momentum Why genius = why × weird² is the formula...

Can You Keep Your Job and Still Run a Franchise? | Franchise Fridays with Jeff Dudan Can you really keep your job and still build a successful business? In this Franchise Fridays episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, we break down the truth behind owner-operator vs. semi-absentee (executive) franchise models. Jeff Dudan reveals what it really takes to run a franchise on nights and weekends, how to evaluate if you have what it takes to go all-in, and what mistakes people make when they think franchising is "passive income." Whether you're trying to escape the 9-to-5, build generational wealth, or...

from microsoft to $700 million in real estate Feras Moussa’s Syndication Journey How does someone go from a Microsoft engineer to managing over $700 million in multifamily real estate? On this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, we sit down with Feras Moussa, co-founder of Disrupt Equity, who shares his incredible journey from tech to becoming a real estate syndication powerhouse. Jeff and Feras talk about: Why real estate isn’t just for the rich—and how anyone can start The real reason most real estate investors fail Systems thinking, KPIs, and what it takes to scale a company fast EOS, h...

Is it smarter to go solo or bring in a partner when launching your franchise? In this Franchise Fridays episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, we break down the Top 5 reasons entrepreneurs bring on a partner—and when it could destroy your business. Jeff Dudan, founder of AdvantaClean and CEO of HomeFront Brands, shares real-world insights from decades in franchising to help you decide: Should you go 50/50, bring in an investor, hire an operator, or do it all yourself? You’ll learn: The worst reason to partner (and how to avoid it) How to structure strategic partnerships that actually work...

The #1 Leadership Skill No One Teaches | Chris Dyer on Company Culture & Scaling Businesses Culture isn’t an afterthought—it’s the foundation of every successful business. In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, I sit down with Chris Dyer, Inc. Magazine’s #1 leadership speaker on company culture, elite water polo athlete, and author of The Power of Company Culture. We explore how to build scalable culture from day one, why meetings reveal the truth about leadership, and how to balance people and performance metrics in fast-growth companies. Chris shares his seven pillars of culture, insights on remote work, and why...

Are veterans built for business ownership? In this powerful Franchise Fridays episode, Jeff Dudan makes the case that they absolutely are — and franchising might just be their next great mission. From discipline and leadership to execution under pressure and a mission-driven mindset, veterans already possess the traits that make franchise owners successful. Jeff breaks down five reasons why military skills translate seamlessly to entrepreneurship, especially within franchise systems like Homefront Brands. If you've worn the uniform — or know someone who has — this is your call to action. Business ownership isn’t just a dream. With the right systems, structure, and supp...

Turning $500k Debt Into a Million-Dollar Luxury Rental Business Dr. Rachel Gainsbrugh's Journey #201 Welcome back to Unemployable with Jeff Dudan! In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Rachel Gainsbrugh, a pharmacist turned successful luxury rental entrepreneur. She shares her inspiring journey from managing $500K in student loan debt to building a multi-million-dollar real estate business through short-term rentals. Dr. Rachel reveals the secrets behind creating luxury properties that attract high-paying guests, the importance of hospitality in real estate, and how she helps medical professionals build wealth outside their W-2 jobs. Learn about her four pillars to success—Find, Fund...

5 Smart Strategies to Exit Your Business with Maximum Value Thinking about selling your business? Whether you're a first-time entrepreneur or a seasoned owner, this episode of Franchise Fridays is your ultimate guide to building a business with a high-value exit in mind. Jeff Dudan breaks down the 5 essential strategies for maximizing your business sale—from building systems that don’t rely on you to protecting your IP, eliminating buyer red flags, and most importantly… cash flow. Plus, why being part of a franchise system can supercharge your exit value—and how to avoid leaving money on the table if you're s...

The Masculinity Crisis and the Power of Vulnerability Judd Shaw’s Message to Men

Authenticity, emotional resilience, vulnerability, leadership, raw storytelling, men’s identity, healing from addictions—this episode with Judd Shaw dives deep into unmasking the persona we create for the outside world and discovering real connection, authenticity, and purpose in life and leadership.

In this powerful episode:

We explore Judd Shaw’s journey from the founder of a thriving New Jersey law firm, addiction, betrayal, rock bottom, therapeutic healing, men’s emotional resilience, and leadership transformation into thought lead...

The Franchise Growth Strategy You Should Know | Franchise Fridays with Jeff Dudan Most people think owning one franchise is success. The pros know better. In this week’s episode of Franchise Fridays, Jeff Dudan reveals what it really takes to build a franchise empire—one that creates financial strength, lifestyle freedom, and a lasting legacy. You’ll learn: Why 54% of all franchises are owned by multi-unit operators The mindset shift from “owning a business” to “building a platform” Why your first location is everything—and how to crush it How to move from operator to portfolio builder Why empire builders treat e...

Decoding Human Behavior with Secret Service Interrogator Brad Beeler What really happens inside a Secret Service interrogation? Can you beat a lie detector? And how do elite agents handle the darkest crimes without losing themselves? On this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, retired Secret Service Special Agent Brad Beeler reveals what it takes to conduct more criminal polygraph exams than anyone else in agency history. From busting myths about beating polygraphs to the ethics of interrogation, dealing with child exploitation cases, and the mental health toll of high-stakes investigations—this episode goes where few are willing to go. We...

Want More Freedom? 4 Reasons Why Entrepreneurs Win In this Franchise Fridays episode, Jeff Dudan reveals the Four Freedoms of Entrepreneurship—and why owning a franchise could be the fastest path to unlocking them. From the freedom to seize new opportunities, to pursuing your curiosity, to building relationships and creating unforgettable life experiences, Jeff lays out exactly how entrepreneurship creates real personal freedom. He also unpacks the foundation of it all: financial freedom—and how business owners build equity, residual income, and generational wealth that most employees never achieve. If you’re tired of trading time for money, and you’re ready...

How to Escape the 9–5 with Rentals with Mandy McAllister #195 What if you could buy back your time, build legacy wealth, and never need a job again? In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, Mandy McAllister shares how she went from a farm girl in a town of 800 to becoming a multifamily real estate investor, financial freedom advocate, and founder of GoBundance Women. Mandy opens up about her journey, the power of cash flow over appreciation, why the fourplex is the best starter play in real estate, and how she’s helping women unlock freedom without sacrificing family or valu...

Franchise Success Starts in Your Mind Why do some entrepreneurs build powerful businesses while others quit before the game even starts? In this Franchise Friday episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, Jeff breaks down five mindset shifts every serious entrepreneur must embrace before starting a business—or signing that franchise agreement. This episode is based on Jeff’s original frameworks and 30+ years of entrepreneurial leadership. You’ll learn: How to test your real commitment (before you bet your future) Why an internal locus of control is your greatest asset How to subtract distractions to multiply your focus The power of reg...

What separates high performers from the rest? In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, Jeff sits down with Aaron Salko—global sales leader and author of The Ninth Stratum—to break down the science of human performance. From fear and routines to the 9 levels of mastery, this episode delivers a roadmap to elevate how you lead, parent, think, and show up in life. Aaron shares lessons from coaching Fortune 100 executives, creating high-performance frameworks, and even writing a children’s book with his daughter. Learn how standards, self-awareness, and subtracting distractions can unlock the next level of your potential. 🔥 Topics Co...

Are you ready to step into the arena? In this power-packed episode of Franchise Fridays, Jeff Dudan breaks down why every franchise owner must be the face of their business. He shares real-world stories, tactical leadership tips, and lessons from decades of experience in franchising. Discover how to: Create reputational lead flow (no more buying weak leads) Attract and retain top talent in your local market Build meaningful partnerships with suppliers, banks, and agencies Eliminate business latency through leadership clarity Train like a business athlete—physically, mentally, and strategically Build a business that reflects your energy, intention, and vision Th...

What if your greatest pain was the beginning of your purpose? In this episode of Unemployable with Jeff Dudan, Rick Walker reveals how he went from painting flagpoles and living in a van to launching multimillion-dollar businesses, leading nonprofits in 53 countries, and becoming a force for men searching for truth, identity, and meaning in today’s chaotic world. Author of Nine Steps to Build a Life of Meaning, Rick opens up about early trauma, imposter syndrome, faith, fatherhood, power, and redemption—and how he uses those experiences to help others escape the trap of comfort and build a legacy thro...

👉 Ready to buy a franchise? Before you sign anything, watch this. In this episode of Franchise Fridays with Jeff Dudan, we reveal 5 franchise X-factors that matter more than money — and could make or break your success. Whether you’re eyeing a food, pet, property services, or home improvement franchise, these are the hidden essentials you must evaluate first. ✅ What you’ll learn: The real “capital” you’re investing in (hint: it’s not just money) How to spot a franchise with leadership, legal, and marketing support that actually helps you win The key validation questions to ask existing franchisees Why technology and...

Is Tanning Safe? Skin Protection Tips You Need GoGlow CEO Melanie Richards' Summer Guide Summer’s here, and so are the dangerous UV rays that threaten our skin. In this Unemployable with Jeff Dudan episode, we’re joined by Melanie Richards, the CEO and founder of Go Glow, a revolutionary airbrush tanning company that’s changing the game in sun safety. Learn how to protect your skin from the sun while still getting that perfect summer glow, all without the harmful effects of traditional tanning beds or sun exposure. With Melanie’s expertise, you’ll discover the importance of safe tanni...

Thinking about buying a franchise? Already signed the agreement? Before you go any further, you need to hear this. In this episode of Franchise Fridays, Jeff Dudan breaks down the math that most new franchisees overlook—the numbers that actually determine success. From gross margins and breakeven timelines to owner's benefit and revenue profiles, Jeff walks you through the real financial model behind franchise ownership. 65% of small business owners admit they didn’t understand the numbers before they launched. Don’t be one of them. In this episode: ✅ How to calculate real ROI (Return on Intention) ✅ The 4 key financial milestones...