Franchise Secrets Podcast

From Googling “Can you sell a franchise after 4 months?” to owning and scaling a multi-brand franchise empire, Anna Dey’s story is the ultimate masterclass in perseverance and smart growth.   In this episode of Franchise Secrets, Erik sits down with Anna to uncover how she: -Survived brutal 2 a.m. shifts and near-burnout -Has owned and scaled brands including Anytime Fitness, Clean Eatz, Smoothie King, goGLOW, and more -Learned to empower leaders, exit markets strategically, and build a thriving charity that’s raised $2.6 million for kids   Whether you’re an aspiring franchisee or a seasoned operator, Anna’s hard-won insights on pivoting, scaling, and staying profitable will inspire and equip you.   Timestamps   00:00 — Anna’s early struggles and the 4-month near-quit moment 02:18 — From corporate America to first franchise success with Anytime Fitness 06:43 — The challenge of managing six different franchise concepts at once 11:35 — Why Anytime Fitness had to reinvent its brand (and how owners reacted) 15:12 — Clean Eatz: from exhausting all-nighters to top-performing units 20:37 — Staying calm when early months feel overwhelming (and money is tight) 24:42 — The surprising grand-opening flop that turned into her best Smoothie King 28:42 — Why GoGlo fit Anna’s perfect investment formula (low labor, small footprint) 36:34 — Inside the 24-and-24 Foundation: $2.6 million raised for kids’ wishes 42:50 — How empowering better-than-you managers unlocks exponential growth   Resources: Join Erik’s free franchise community: FranchiseSecrets.com/Facebook Explore the Franchisee Mastermind: ScalableFranchise.com   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #Franchising #Entrepreneurship #Resilience

Jerry Pugh went from making $5 an hour as a paramedic to owning 19+ Workout Anytime gyms—and then shocked the franchise world by buying the entire 200-unit brand. Everyone said it was impossible. Private equity experts said no way. Yet Jerry made it happen and now leads the company as CEO.   In this episode of Franchise Secrets, Jerry shares how he scaled fast, knew when to close a failing location, negotiated with landlords, attracted private equity, and ultimately pulled off a once-in-a-lifetime majority ownership deal.   If you’re an entrepreneur, franchisee, or dream of building something big, this story will light a fire under you. 💥   ⏱ Timestamps 00:00 – Everyone said it couldn’t be done: the impossible franchise deal 02:20 – From paramedic to first Workout Anytime franchise purchase 05:40 – Lessons learned closing a money-losing location 09:30 – Planting the seed to one day own the brand 13:45 – Innovating early with wellness suites & bigger gyms 17:50 – How premium amenities doubled lifetime customer value 22:10 – Cutting churn & boosting retention with smart engagement 26:45 – Building trust and relationships as a first-time franchisor CEO 29:50 – Teaching franchisees to scale and attract private equity 33:30 – Pulling off a rare majority-ownership deal with debt & equity 39:30 – Jerry’s final advice: work harder, take risks, see opportunities others miss   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #Franchising #Entrepreneurship #Grit

Thinking about starting a franchise while working full-time (and maybe raising a family too)? 🚀 In this episode of Franchise Secrets, Bobby Brennan shares his journey from employee → sweat equity partner → franchisee → “semi-absentee” owner.   He reveals the real cost of chasing franchise ownership when your capacity is maxed out, the truth about franchisor value, and why “failure” can be the best teacher. If you’ve ever considered buying a franchise or wondered whether semi-absentee ownership really works, this is a must-watch.   👉 Learn how to avoid the semi-absentee trap, retain rockstar employees with equity, and recognize when you’re overconfident in your business picks.   Timestamps:   00:00 – Adding a franchise on top of a newborn, new home, and full-time work 01:28 – From employee to sweat equity partner in a 60+ unit franchise 05:45 – The “owner’s mindset” that changed everything 07:06 – The 4 I’s every rockstar team member needs (Initiative, Integrity, Intentionality, Influence) 09:25 – How Bobby tested his limits (and his boss’s patience) with risky decisions 12:18 – When a medical device job offer almost pulled him away 14:44 – Why equity and culture kept him in franchising 19:42 – Retaining top talent with phantom equity & profit share 27:11 – The hard truth: the franchisor does more than you realize 33:06 – Bobby’s biggest franchise lesson: the semi-absentee trap 36:56 – Why “failure” isn’t the end—it’s a setup for the next opportunity 41:36 – Missing out on OrangeTheory (and the humility of bad picks) 47:05 – Final advice: ask Why not me? and create your own path   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #Franchising #Ownership #Success

Are you secretly holding your franchise back? In this episode, Erik reveals how he became the bottleneck in his own businesses—and the hard lessons that helped him break free. From scaling mistakes to fixing bad decisions, discover the truth every franchisee must face if they want to grow profitably.   ⏱️ Timestamps   00:00 – How franchisees sabotage their own teams 02:45 – Why scaling back can actually grow profits 04:25 – The nightmare of “Store #3” 06:15 – The pricing mistake that killed momentum 07:58 – Spotting the “underperformer clubs” 10:26 – Why you need to step OUT of your locations 12:15 – How sabbaticals reveal hidden weaknesses 14:34 – Don’t follow the loudest voices in franchising 17:59 – The real definition of winning in business 19:43 – Why paid ads can’t fix broken operations 22:35 – Stop focusing on what you can’t change 25:53 – Franchisees & franchisors: more aligned than you think   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #Franchise #Franchisee #Business

Most investors are playing the wrong game. Billionaires? They treat investing like a business. In this episode of Franchise Secrets, Erik Van Horn sits down with Bob Fraser—entrepreneur, investor, and author of Invest Like a Billionaire—to uncover how the ultra-wealthy think differently, avoid risk, and build generational wealth.   From bouncing back after losing millions to structuring investments for tax advantages and family legacy, Bob shares the insider strategies that institutional investors and billionaire families use—but almost no one talks about.   Whether you’re an entrepreneur with cash on the sidelines, a franchise owner scaling up, or simply someone wanting to learn how to build lasting wealth, this conversation is packed with wisdom you won’t hear from your average financial advisor.   TIMESTAMPS:   00:00 – Why billionaires treat investing like a business 02:05 – Spotting winners early & the power of resilience 04:47 – Bob’s journey: dot-com boom to financial crash 06:30 – Why billionaires avoid the 60/40 portfolio trap 09:06 – The #1 mistake most investors make 12:38 – The overlooked superpower of private markets 17:02 – Liquidity planning & using lines of credit wisely 22:05 – Private credit: the most underused cashflow strategy 24:47 – Tax structures that can save millions 29:55 – Why you should always diversify outside your business 34:32 – Real estate cycles & how to spot good deals 39:42 – How smart investors evaluate deals beyond IRR 44:31 – Building generational wealth & family meetings 47:36 – Teaching kids (and grandkids) to steward money 50:23 – Where to get Bob’s book Invest Like a Billionaire   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #Investing #Strategy #FranchiseSecrets

Most franchisees focus on revenue. The smart ones focus on profit. In this episode, Jeff Herr and Eric dive into the financial truths franchisors and franchisees must understand—from staffing costs to KPIs—if they want to scale and succeed. Profit isn’t optional. It’s survival.   Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome + Jeff’s birthday talk 00:41 – From franchisee beginnings to franchisor support 02:31 – Why revenue isn’t the real measure of success 05:52 – Expenses vs. profitability explained 08:21 – Staffing: the biggest profitability lever 10:49 – Robert Kiyosaki & going back to basics 13:38 – Scaling smart: fewer employees, bigger profits 22:41 – Tools & KPIs every franchisee should demand 26:27 – Opening 3 locations at once: lessons learned 29:14 – Profit vs. vanity metrics 40:18 – “Raise your hand” and learn your numbers   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #Franchising #Profitability #Business

In this solo episode, Erik shares the hard-earned lessons he wishes he’d known sooner as a franchisee—so you can avoid costly mistakes, scale smart, and boost profitability. From avoiding territory overload to mastering the basics that actually make money, this is the blueprint for long-term success in franchising.   Timestamps: 0:00 – Why franchisees fail before they start 1:20 – Scaling back from 20 to 10 locations 3:15 – The territory trap: bigger isn’t better 6:12 – Buying existing vs. starting new 8:30 – Innovating too early in your franchise 12:25 – Obsessing over the wrong things 16:30 – The danger of overleveraging 19:11 – Brand name myths 23:22 – Learning from the top 1% 28:48 – Why top-line obsession kills profits   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #FranchiseGrowth #BusinessMistakes #Profit

What if your grand opening sprint is the very thing burning out your team and killing your momentum? Aaron Hovivian shares the proven strategy his team uses to launch drive-thru coffee shops, run high-impact sprints, and avoid chaos. Whether you're a franchisee or founder, this episode breaks down the full blueprint—from planning to execution—with real stories and hard-won lessons.   ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Why sprints can burn out your team 01:40 – What Aaron’s fractional COO team actually does 03:48 – How short-term contracts empower clients 05:17 – From vision to grand opening: how to break it down 07:02 – The difference between annual plans and sprints 08:52 – Grand opening vs. sprint: where things get real 10:25 – Marketing sprints and digital product launches 12:57 – Common launch week mistakes 16:30 – The dark side of “always sprinting” 28:34 – Why building a strong third tier is key 40:38 – The biggest mistake founders make during sprints   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #Franchising #Leadership #Operations

In this episode, Taco John’s CEO, Heather Neary, shares her full-circle journey, the five C’s of franchising success, and what it takes to grow a legacy QSR in today’s competitive market. From franchisee empathy to marketing/ops integration—this is a masterclass in modern franchising.   Timestamps: 00:00 – The lawnmower hustle: Eric's childhood story 01:25 – Meet Heather: CEO of Taco John’s 03:46 – Her path from cheesesteaks to CEO 04:49 – Uniting marketing & ops under one vision 06:55 – How to support struggling franchisees 09:37 – Food vs. non-food franchising insights 14:56 – Taco John’s legacy and brand refresh 17:54 – How to lead meaningful brand change 20:20 – Listening tours and building trust 26:08 – Franchisee ROI and capital investment strategy   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #Franchising #Leadership #QSR

What does it take to build a multi-million dollar business empire in a town of just 65,000 people?   Former pro baseball player Joshua Kalinowski reveals how he transitioned from the Colorado Rockies to real estate, roofing, solar, and beyond—creating multiple thriving companies in a boom-and-bust market. From mindset and leadership to franchise strategy and family priorities, this episode is packed with hard-won wisdom for entrepreneurs and franchisees alike.   🎧 Timestamps: 00:00 – Build confidence by building evidence 00:45 – Joshua Kalinowski’s intro 01:36 – From pro athlete to entrepreneur 04:13 – Starting Coldwell Banker during the 2008 crash 06:01 – Why he diversified beyond franchising 08:52 – Key lessons from franchising 10:59 – Entrepreneur vs. business owner 13:55 – Hiring a COO to scale 17:14 – Mentorship with Sharon Srivatsa 20:47 – Structuring a HoldCo 25:30 – Staying in your lane as a visionary 28:53 – Balancing business and family 32:08 – Health, discipline, and leadership 36:26 – When to check P&Ls   Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with a fellow entrepreneur who needs inspiration!   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Franchising

Thinking of selling your franchise brand someday? Don’t do it until you hear this.    Investment banker J. Patrick Galleher from Boxwood Partners joins Franchise Secrets to break down the real mechanics behind franchise exits, private equity deals, and what makes a brand worth $100M—or not.   We cover:   -Why “vanity metrics” like territories sold can hurt your valuation -What smart franchisors do differently to attract premium buyers -The truth behind 20x multiples (and why most never get close) -How to avoid common mistakes that kill enterprise value -When to step aside as founder—and when to double down -This is the episode every franchisor needs to hear before scaling or exiting.   👉 Join the Franchise Secrets Facebook group: franchisesecrets.com/facebook 👉 Learn more about the Franchisor Mastermind: scalablefranchise.com   ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Why some founders thrive after selling… and others don’t 01:22 – Pat Gallagher’s background in franchise M&A 03:00 – How to tell if your franchisor is giving you the full truth 06:47 – The real story behind those $100M franchise exits 08:30 – Second bite of the apple: how founders cash in twice 09:48 – Vanity metrics vs real enterprise value 12:00 – How to avoid a stale “snow” pipeline 13:57 – Why unit-level economics matter more than hype 17:39 – The hidden ways franchisors protect their Item 19 24:52 – When founders should step aside—and how to find the right buyer 29:42 – The truth about 20x multiples (and what it really means)   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #FranchiseExits #FranchisorTips #PrivateEquityTruth

In this episode of Franchise Secrets, Erik Van Horn sits down with Nic Leland from Front Street to pull back the curtain on what really happens behind closed doors in franchise development.   Nic doesn’t just help people say yes to franchises — he helps them say no when it’s not the right fit. His journey from a would-be doctor to a franchise advisor reveals the human side of franchising, identity, risk, and making the right call for your future.   Whether you're thinking of buying a franchise, already in the game, or part of a sales team, this is the raw, real, and radically honest episode you need to hear.   👀 You’ll learn:   -Why being approved for a franchise isn't automatic -The importance of identity, purpose, and fit in business -What makes someone NOT ready for entrepreneurship -How great developers protect founders and franchisees   ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – “Don’t buy that business”: The best franchise advice you’ll ever hear 01:38 – Why this isn’t just another franchise development episode 02:46 – From med school rejection to franchise leadership: Nic’s origin story 04:59 – The gamble that changed Nic’s life: Joining Front Street 07:22 – Letting go of your career identity — and finding the right one 09:46 – How identity and fear play into franchise buying decisions 12:04 – What Nic would tell his younger self (and why lifestyle matters) 17:54 – The early days of Front Street and why it’s not about volume 22:10 – Helping people walk away: The real job of a great franchise dev 23:59 – The “Why vs Why Not” list that every franchisee should make 30:42 – How Front Street decides when to not approve a candidate 39:00 – Broker vs website leads: Why the origin of the lead matters 43:41 – What makes a 10/10 franchise consultant vs a 1/10 46:36 – How Nic reviews applications — and what the numbers reveal 50:30 – Building wealth vs spending income: What franchisee finances tell you   🔗 Resources & Mentions:   Join the free Facebook group: franchisesecrets.com/facebook   Learn more at: scalablefranchise.com   Want to work with Front Street? Reach out at frontstreetequitypartners.com   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #Franchising #Entrepreneurship #Leadership

There’s a reason we don’t say “yes” to every franchise opportunity—and in this episode, we break down why. Jeff Herr joins Erik to reveal what actually makes a franchise brand scalable, investable, and valuable long-term.   We’re talking proprietary IP, raving customers, founder mindset, team culture, recurring revenue, and why the first rule of franchising is: don’t franchise. From a $12M single-unit operator to a high-margin dirty job brand no one’s heard of… this is the inside playbook.   👇 Timestamps:   00:00 – If you’re tired, franchising won’t save you 01:44 – What Jeff looks for in brands 03:33 – The “boxes” every brand must check 06:52 – Defining brand: emotional connection = real value 08:26 – A dirty job with 5-star reviews & proprietary IP 11:41 – Why recurring customers are gold 14:53 – FSOs vs Front Street: What makes us different 15:56 – Building enterprise value VS. chasing franchise sales 19:19 – The grit-and-grind behind true growth 27:13 – Why we told a $300k/mo brand NOT to franchise yet 34:50 – $12M from ONE unit: what made this brand unstoppable 43:32 – The 4 critical boxes for any franchise brand   🎧 Subscribe for more insights at FranchiseSecrets.com 🔥 Need help growing or launching a franchise? → ScalableFranchise.com   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #Franchise #FranchiseSecrets #FrontStreetEquityPartners

What happens when you ignore your gut and hold onto a struggling franchise too long? In this episode, Erik Van Horn shares the raw story of how one decision cost him over $100,000—and how it shaped the way he approaches franchise buying today. From distressed sellers and employee transitions to risky leases and LOI clauses, this episode is packed with real-world lessons for franchisees, franchisors, and investors alike.   🔑 What You’ll Learn:   -The $100K mistake that changed Erik's entire investment strategy -How to spot a distressed seller (and how to negotiate with them) -What most sellers don’t understand about buyers -How to structure a smart, risk-aware Letter of Intent (LOI) -Why culture and employees can make or break an acquisition -Real red flags buyers often miss (like prepaid revenue traps) -The power of empathy, humility, and scars in franchise success   🛠️ Resources Mentioned:   -Franchise Secrets Facebook Group: franchisesecrets.com/facebook -Scalable Franchise Coaching: scalablefranchise.com -Free custom GPTs for franchise buyers and operators (coming soon in the Facebook group)   ⏱️ Timestamps:   0:00 – The $100K mistake that started it all 1:14 – What went wrong: remote ownership, false optimism, sunk costs 3:38 – Why some deals are better left behind 5:50 – The psychology of a distressed seller 6:55 – What buyers are REALLY thinking (but don’t say out loud) 9:00 – How to protect yourself with a rock-solid LOI 12:46 – Lease pitfalls, employee contracts, and legal landmines 18:46 – Secret shopping: how to really understand a franchise’s culture 21:22 – How to evaluate team dynamics and playbooks post-acquisition 23:31 – Ego, empathy, and becoming a better franchise buyer 26:11 – Why peace of mind is often more valuable than the best price 27:39 – How to manage risk when buying a franchise 28:26 – What’s next: acquisitions, GPT tools, and how to get involved   📢 Subscribe & Follow: Don’t miss future episodes with top franchise operators, experts, and insiders. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #Franchising #Failure #Lessons

What happens when a rockstar franchisee enters a struggling market—and when a weak operator steps into a booming territory? In this episode, Erik Van Horn sits down with Kevin Sill, a second-generation franchisee who helped scale a family-owned Budget Blinds operation to 17 territories and over $20M in annual revenue. But that’s not all—Kevin also made the leap into owning a mom-and-pop flooring business, and he’s sharing the raw, unfiltered lessons from both worlds.   Whether you're a franchisee, an aspiring business owner, or curious about building generational wealth through franchising, this conversation is packed with insights on:   -Scaling in diverse markets (rural vs. metro) -Building a franchise empire with your family -Diversifying beyond franchising -Why customer service is still king -How great operators outperform weak ones—regardless of market   🔥 Episode Highlights:   -Real talk on underperforming franchisees -Franchise vs. non-franchise ownership pros & cons -Leveraging Facebook groups and peer networks -What Kevin wishes he’d known earlier -Why being coachable and curious beats being a know-it-all   📌 Resources Mentioned:   franchisesecretsgroup.com  ScalableFranchise.com – Get help growing or buying a franchise   Timestamps:   00:00 – What happens when you put a top franchisee in a weak market? 01:47 – Should you start a business or buy a franchise? Kevin’s journey 04:49 – From accounting to franchisee: Kevin’s background 09:16 – How Kevin scaled to 17 territories and $20M in revenue 11:39 – Comparing markets: rural Iowa vs. inner-city Twin Cities 14:46 – Which territories would Kevin not buy again—and why 18:38 – The power of repeat and referral business 24:55 – Why Kevin bought a non-franchise flooring company 31:05 – What Kevin appreciates more about franchising after owning independently 39:23 – Why curiosity and humility are franchise superpowers   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #Franchising #Business #Franchise

How do you grow a multi-unit fitness franchise without a massive ad budget?   Ray Dunn did it—with free classes, donuts, grassroots events, and relationships. In this episode of Franchise Secrets, Erik Van Horn and Ray unpack a masterclass in guerrilla marketing, team management, lead generation, and semi-absentee ownership.   Whether you're launching a new location or scaling an established brand, this episode is packed with real, proven strategies to help you win locally.   Timestamps:   00:00 – Why Grassroots marketing still works 01:30 – Ray Dunn’s journey from CPA to franchisee 03:25 – Beating household brands with grassroots tactics 05:10 – Early hustle: donuts, Jeep deliveries & costumes 06:30 – Launching Club Pilates with no brand awareness 08:30 – How to test your brand’s local visibility 11:40 – Landmarks vs. addresses: smarter local marketing 13:25 – Visibility = growth: rent as a marketing investment 15:00 – Defining semi-absentee ownership (and what it's not) 17:45 – Event-based growth strategies (with real examples) 21:40 – Partnering with breweries, parks & coffee shops 25:00 – Low-cost events: $75 budget, real ROI 28:00 – B2B outreach & free "Pilates Party" lead gen 31:00 – How to build win-win partnerships with local businesses 33:00 – Using AI (ChatGPT) to plan local marketing strategy 36:00 – Prize wheels, contests & collecting quality leads 40:00 – The $3 lead strategy that generates customers 44:30 – High-value, low-cost giveaway strategies 46:10 – Hiring & training staff for grassroots engagement 49:00 – The mindset shift owners and staff must embrace 52:45 – Selling by removing barriers (not pressure tactics) 55:00 – What emerging franchisors can learn from top operators 57:10 – Ray’s final advice for franchisees & franchise brands   📌 What You'll Learn:   -Smart local lead gen using free classes and community events -Why visibility and location matter more than you think -Training staff to love community marketing (even introverts) -How to build real partnerships with neighboring businesses -When and how to delegate grassroots marketing -The truth about semi-absentee ownership in franchise systems -How franchisees can influence the playbook for entire brands -Creative prize strategies to boost lead capture and conversion -Why emerging brands should listen to the field   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/  👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/  💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/   Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #FranchiseGrowth #GrassrootsMarketing #FitnessBusiness #PilatesStudios #FranchiseSecrets #LocalMarketing

What separates the average franchisee from the elite? In this solo episode, Erik Van Horn shares the exit playbook used by top-performing franchisees to scale, systemize, and cash out for millions. Discover how to go from franchise operator to investor, build a sellable franchise business, and protect your wealth with smart tax strategies and capital allocation.   Learn the secrets behind:   -Structuring a business for exit -Buying tired franchises and turning them around -Tax strategies every entrepreneur should know -Investor identity and risk mitigation -Avoiding the biggest mistakes after a big payday   Whether you're just getting started or preparing to exit, this episode gives you the tools, mindset, and playbook to build serious wealth through franchising.   Timestamps: 00:00 – From Operator to Investor: The Big Shift 02:18 – Replacing Your Income vs. Building Wealth 03:09 – Multi-Million Dollar Exit Strategy 06:38 – Learning the Investing Game 07:50 – How to Build a Sellable Franchise 08:57 – Buying Out Tired Franchisees 10:44 – Real Estate Risks When Acquiring Locations 13:35 – Resources: Franchise Secrets Facebook & Mastermind 14:48 – Buying Performing Assets and Doubling ROI 16:27 – Cash Flow vs. EBITDA: What Really Matters 17:43 – How to Exit Without Fully Exiting 18:45 – Find a CPA Who’s a Tax Strategist 21:05 – Rookie Investor Mistakes to Avoid 24:01 – What Real Downside Protection Looks Like 27:10 – Define Your Investor Identity    Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/  👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/  💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/   Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL   #FranchiseExit #FranchiseGrowth #PassiveIncome

In this episode, Erik is joined by Sherri Sieber, president of FranFund, to dive deep into the pitfalls and must-knows for emerging franchisors—and the critical importance of funding, accurate FDDs, and realistic projections.   🔑 Key Takeaways: 🚩 Red flags when franchisees are only allowed to call 3 out of 20 franchisees. 💰 Why underfunded franchisees are a risk to your brand’s survival. 📊 The importance of Item 7 in the FDD—and how lowballing can backfire. 🧠 What lenders really look at when evaluating a franchise brand. 🧾 Item 20 explained: why losing franchise units hurts more than you think. 🏛️ The return of the SBA Franchise Directory (and why it matters). 📉 The Coleman Report: the “credit report” for franchise loan history. 🏗️ Real estate delays and overspending on flagship locations = long-term pain. 🙅‍♂️ Why saying “no” to an unqualified candidate is a gift, not a failure. 📣 Resources Mentioned:   ✅ Join the free Franchise Secrets Facebook Group → https://FranchiseSecrets.com/facebook ✅ Learn about the Franchisor Mastermind → https://ScalableFranchise.com   ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Red flag: Only allowing 3 franchisee references 02:00 – The danger of poorly capitalized emerging brands 06:00 – Underqualified buyers & the franchise fee trap 10:00 – Visualizing burn rate and the path to break even 13:00 – Why an inaccurate Item 7 can ruin lender trust 20:00 – The power of Item 20 and why lost units matter 23:30 – The Coleman Report: Franchise credit score explained 28:00 – SBA lending changes coming June 1st 37:00 – Costly buildout mistakes by franchisees 45:00 – Real estate scarcity cripples scaling 50:00 – When FranFund says “no,” it’s for your brand’s good   💬 Final Thoughts: If you’re an emerging franchisor—or thinking about becoming one—this episode is a must-listen. Your first 10–20 franchisees define your brand’s story, reputation, and lender viability. Don’t build a brand on hype. Build it on solid systems, funding, and trust.   👍 Like, Subscribe & Share if you found value. 🎧 Follow the Franchise Secrets Podcast for more expert conversations!   Connect with Sherri and FranFund here: Website: https://www.franfund.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherriseiber/   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/    Best Franchise Starter Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMlgRgsBAo4LWNCMSOthnK0r&si=TD1z25-ie2d23rGm https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMle5_OUXiuLbc_UPBtz1vTE&si=uCOgDya1VnnCarDf https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEEithd54kMk2Kw07KwZGWgF8UTx9N5_T&si=ZldjBOqFanGE-JUL

Are you ready to turn your passion into a thriving franchise? In this episode of Franchise Secrets, Erik Van Horn speaks with Derek Pipkorn, a multi-center owner of Mathnasium, a math-only learning center, about how to scale and manage a franchise successfully.  Derek shares insights into the challenges and rewards of growing multiple franchise locations and how he’s used his experiences to build a scalable business model. He discusses how franchisees can overcome common pitfalls that stifle growth. He also reveals the importance of delegation, brand consistency, and balancing passion with business strategy to create long-term value.  If you're considering franchising, Derek’s journey offers valuable lessons on navigating the complex world of franchise management. From understanding territory dynamics to overcoming fears around competition, this episode is packed with advice for building a successful, scalable franchise. Tune in to hear Derek’s insights on growing your franchise, creating strong brand foundations, and leveraging strategic partnerships. Don’t miss out on these helpful insights!   “If the passion doesn't really technically drive the revenue and the growth of the center and it's not focused, it just kinda becomes a hobby, and I made sure that that wasn't the case from the start." ~ Derek Pipkorn   In This Episode: - Transition from teaching to entrepreneurship - Derek’s journey and passion for franchise ownership - The balance of business growth and passion - The first step to franchise success - Resale vs. starting from scratch - Dealing with competition and franchisee relationships - The importance of having a supportive partner in life and business - Building an asset vs. building cash flow - Delegating responsibilities to scale a franchise - Derek's lifestyle outside of Mathnasium   Resources:  🌐 Consult with Erik - https://form.jotform.com/222685728939070 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617    🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617  🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - https://scalablefranchise.com/ 🌐 Franchise Springboard - https://franchisespringboard.com/   Connect with Derek Pipkorn: 🌐 Website - https://www.mathnasium.com/ 💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-pipkorn-b550a523/   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/ 

What’s the secret to scaling a franchise brand with venture capital? In today’s episode, Yoni Rechtman shares his insights into what makes franchising a powerful tool for growth and why it’s not just about finding the right product, but about creating systems that work. Yoni, a principal at Slow Ventures, joins Erik Van Horn to discuss the intersection of franchising and venture capital, explaining why the model is often misunderstood in the investment world. They dive into finding the right founder, the importance of scalable systems, and why franchisors must think beyond just opening more units.  If you’re a founder or investor, this episode will give you the roadmap to build for growth and success. Tune in for an insider’s perspective on how to make franchising work for you!   “I don't think you can build healthy businesses by just hacking it, cheating, and cutting corners. You can maybe do something quickly, but you can't build something durable. And what matters is building something durable that will outlive you and be a long-standing, important company." ~ Yoni Rechtman   In This Episode: - Meet Yoni Rechtman, Principal at Slow Ventures - Why other VCs are not as interested in franchising as Yoni - Yoni's advice to the founder who wants to raise capital - Liquidity timelines and the philosophy behind Slow Ventures - The importance of a founder’s vision and ambition - How to determine brand valuation - What Yoni is looking for in a founder and a brand - Angel investor vs. venture capitalist - How VCs help franchise owners grow - Where founders should be focusing  - The value of building scalable systems for long-term success   Resources:  🌐 Consult with Erik - https://form.jotform.com/222685728939070 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617    🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617  🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - https://scalablefranchise.com/ 🌐 Franchise Springboard - https://franchisespringboard.com/   Connect with Yoni Rechtman: 🌐 Website - https://slow.co/about/ 💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/yrechtman/   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/