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Franchise QB

Franchise QB
Author: Mike Halpern
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© 2025 Franchise QB
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Welcome to the Franchise QB podcast where we empower entrepreneurs to WIN BIG in franchising. Hosted by Mike Halpern, a 20-year franchising veteran and entrepreneur, we huddle up weekly to educate our audience about the most successful small business model ever created: Franchising. Our mission is for listeners to achieve their American Dreams as new franchise owners. Let’s get started!
92 Episodes
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In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Roman Maliszewski, the founder and CEO of Tapster, a self-pour tasting room franchise. They discuss Roman's journey from advertising to creating a unique bar experience that emphasizes community and connection. Tapster's innovative approach allows customers to pour their own drinks while enjoying a variety of beverages in a welcoming environment. Roman shares insights on franchising, the importance of local flav...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Wade Brannon, President and CEO of Pigtails & Crewcuts. They discuss Wade's extensive background in franchising, his acquisition of Pigtails & Crewcuts, and the growth strategies that have led to the brand's expansion. Wade shares insights on the children's haircut market, the importance of creating a welcoming environment for children, and the support provided to franchise owners. The conversation also ...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Denise Tran, founder and CEO of Bun Mee, a Vietnamese fast casual restaurant. Denise shares her inspiring journey from practicing attorney to entrepreneur, driven by personal loss and a passion for Vietnamese street food. The conversation explores the unique aspects of Bun Mee, including its branding, menu design, and operational efficiency. Denise discusses the importance of franchising for growth, the s...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with David Craghead, Chief Franchise Expansion Officer at Franserve. They discuss David's extensive background in franchising, the role of Franserve in connecting entrepreneurs with franchise opportunities, and the growth of the franchise industry beyond traditional quick-service restaurants. The conversation also highlights the importance of integrity and teamwork in franchising, insights from Franserve's annual co...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern interviews Stephanie Knepp, CEO of Sit Still Kids Salon. They discuss Stephanie's journey into franchising, the unique business model of Sit Still, and the importance of community and customer experience in the children's hair care industry. Stephanie shares insights on the growth of Sit Still, the leadership structure, and the ideal profile for franchisees. The conversation highlights the significant market potential for c...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Ford Saeks, a seasoned entrepreneur and AI integration strategist, about the essential elements of successful franchise ownership. They discuss the importance of mindset shifts for aspiring franchisees, proven marketing and sales strategies, the role of AI in streamlining operations, and common pitfalls to avoid. Ford emphasizes the need for personal accountability, critical thinking, and the importance o...
In this episode of the Franchise QB podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Jimi Gibson, VP of Brand Communication at Thrive Agency, about the intersection of magic and marketing. Jimi shares his unique journey from being a professional magician to a marketing expert, emphasizing the importance of communication strategies in a noisy digital landscape. They discuss the significance of local presence for franchise owners, effective marketing strategies, and the role of AI in enhanc...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern interviews John Gelastopolous, Founder and President of Broken Yolk Cafe. John shares his journey from Greece to becoming a successful restaurant owner and franchisor. He discusses the unique concept of Broken Yolk Cafe, the challenges faced in the restaurant industry, and the importance of maintaining high average unit volumes. Takeaways John Gelastopolous started in the restaurant industry with no money or skills. H...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Leigh Feldman, CEO of Youth Franchise Brands, about his extensive experience in franchising and the unique business models of his brands, Young Chefs Academy and Flour Power Cooking Studios. They discuss the importance of creating a positive customer experience, the revenue generation strategies within the franchise model, and the support provided to franchise owners. Takeaways Leigh Feldman has 17 years...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern discusses the journey of Canopy Lawn Care with its leaders, Hunt Davis, Ben Wright, and Jack Humbert. They explore Hunt's move from finance to entrepreneurship, the importance of agronomy in lawn care, and the unique offerings of Canopy Lawn Care. The conversation highlights the competitive advantages of the business, the role of AI in enhancing operations, and the ideal profile for potential franchise owners. The episode c...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Chad Wright, Director of Franchise Development at HomeFront Brands. They discuss Chad's journey into franchising, the business model of Window Hero, and the advantages of franchise ownership. The conversation covers the importance of customer experience, the various ownership models available, and the current landscape of franchise opportunities. Chad shares insights into the financial performance of Window Hero...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Lonnie McGowan, a multi-unit franchise owner of Image Studios, about his transition from a successful corporate career to franchise ownership. Lonnie shares his journey, the unique business model of Image Studios, and insights into the beauty and wellness industry. He discusses the importance of supporting beauty professionals, the operational aspects of running a franchise, and the training provided by the franchisor...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern interviews Dan Feltman, co-founder of The Garage Floor Company. They discuss Dan's journey from law enforcement to entrepreneurship, the unique business model of The Garage Floor Company, and the booming market for home services. Dan shares insights on how the company differentiates itself in a competitive landscape, the training and support provided to franchisees, and the financial performance of the business. The convers...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Greg Macchia, a franchise consultant and owner of Franchising First. They discuss the vital role of franchise coaches in guiding entrepreneurs through the franchising landscape, Greg's personal journey into franchising, and the importance of due diligence in franchise ownership. The conversation also covers the franchise search process, the significance of having a supportive team, and advice for new candidates ...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Corey Criss, Director of Franchise Training at The Dog Stop. They discuss the unique services offered by The Dog Stop, Corey's journey with the company, and the innovative approaches to franchise growth and customer experience. The conversation also covers the importance of training and support for franchise owners, marketing strategies, employee development, and the characteristics sought in potential franchise...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Lance Ingram and Tim Lovett, founders of Waterloo Turf, about their journey into the artificial turf business and the franchising model they have developed. They discuss the core values that drive their company, the growth potential of the artificial turf industry, and the support systems in place for franchise owners. The conversation highlights the importance of customer service, profitability, and effective m...
In this episode of the Franchise QB podcast hosted Mike Halpern, Scott Breimhorst, VP of Franchise Development at Discover Strength, shares insights into the unique business model of Discover Strength, a personal training franchise that focuses on delivering efficient and effective strength training workouts. He discusses the company's growth strategy, the support provided to franchise owners, and the attributes of ideal candidates for franchise ownership. Scott also highlights the importanc...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Bryant and Hampden Keil, multi-unit franchise owners of Potbelly. They discuss the journey of Potbelly from its founding to its current status as a leading fast-casual sandwich brand. The conversation covers the unique aspects of the Potbelly concept, the importance of customer experience, the supportive leadership team, and the benefits of being a franchisee. They also delve into the qualities sought in potenti...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Josh Wise, CEO of Grassroots Turf, about his journey in the lawn care industry and the innovative franchising model he has developed. They discuss the importance of customer relationships, the growth of the lawn care market, and how Grassroots Turf differentiates itself through technology and service. Josh shares insights on the competitive landscape, the support provided to franchisees, and the financial aspects...
In this episode of the Franchise QB Podcast, host Mike Halpern speaks with Matt Forbush, founder and CEO of Zignyl, about his journey in franchising and the innovative solutions his company provides to enhance business operations. They discuss the challenges faced by franchise owners, the importance of employee engagement, and how Zignyl's AI-driven platform helps streamline decision-making and improve business outcomes. The conversation also touches on the future of Zignyl and ...