FranchiseU!

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser explores the exceptional journey of Donny Bradley, founder of Lola Beans, a fast-growing coffee brand. Starting from a career in medical device sales, Donny's path took a radical turn after discovering Alaska's iconic coffee shacks. The episode covers his transition to entrepreneurship, the inspiration drawn from Alaskan coffee culture, and the importance of good energy and customer connections in building the brand. Donny also discusses the challenges and surprises of becoming a franchisor, the importance of finding the right franchisees, and the role of his family in making Lola Beans a success.  Key Highlights Include:The Alaskan Inspiration and the Transition from Medical Sales to CoffeeThe Importance of TeamworkThe Coffee Industry's Growth PotentialDetails of a Unique Franchising Journey The Importance of Having the Right TeamCreating a Positive CultureReal Estate and Site SelectionQualities of Ideal FranchiseesPride in Family and Team Interested in Franchising? Lola Beans FranchisingClick below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser takes a deep dive into the rise of Layne’s Chicken Fingers, one of the fastest-growing brands in the QSR space. Kathy sits down with Garrett Reed, CEO of Layne’s, and Eli Cohen, a rapidly expanding multi-unit franchisee, to explore their journeys, their philosophies, and the culture that makes Layne’s Chicken Fingers stand out. Garrett shares how his roots in College Station and his extensive career in commercial real estate development with Starbucks, Corner Bakery, Dunkin’ Donuts, Radio Shack, and Zale’s prepared him to steward Layne’s into its next era. After co-founding Main & Main Capital Group and developing more than 200 franchise units across 37 states, he purchased the iconic College Station chicken shack in 2016. Since then, he has elevated operations, opened multiple corporate locations across DFW, and set an ambitious goal: 100 Layne’s Chicken Fingers restaurants in the next five years. Garrett also explains the beloved Astro Chicken concept and how it embodies the brand’s values, quality, and guest experience. Eli brings a franchisee’s perspective to the conversation. As Founder and Operator of C5 Restaurants, he leads one of the country’s strongest Fazoli’s platforms and is actively developing Smalls Sliders and Layne’s Chicken Fingers across West Texas. With a background in real estate investment banking at Citigroup, private-sector development at the World Bank, and more than $600 million in real estate acquired through Cohen Rojas Capital Partners, Eli describes his transition into franchising and why Layne’s culture, support, and product made it the perfect fit. Together, Garrett and Eli unpack what makes a successful franchisee, the role culture plays in brand growth, and why Layne’s Chicken Fingers is poised to become a national favorite. Their enthusiasm for the food, the franchise partners, and the future is unmistakable. Topics Covered:·     The Challenges and Learnings of Franchising·     Layne's Unique Brand and Culture·     The Complexity of Space Travel·     Balancing Technical and Laid-Back Approaches·     Franchising as a Growth Strategy·     Qualities of a Successful Franchisee Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser sits down with Brian Goldstein, President and Owner of Fulenwider Enterprises, to explore one of the most remarkable career journeys in the restaurant industry. Brian started at Taco Bell at just 16½ years old and worked his way up through nearly every leadership position imaginable, ultimately serving as COO of KFC and leading its national operations turnaround. After 32 years in corporate leadership, Brian switched to the franchisee side, where he now is partial owner of Fulenwider Enterprises, which operates nearly 160 Taco Bell and KFC locations across the Southeast. He shares how he built a winning culture rooted in respect, people development, and operational excellence. Brian also breaks down the keys to a high-performing franchise system, the value of strong franchisor relationships, and what it truly takes to grow a thriving multi-unit organization. Listeners will hear Brian’s insights on:Brian's Journey from Taco Bell employee to being a KFC Corporate SuccessBalancing Family and BusinessThe ‘Best On Block’ PhilosophyWhat Makes a Great FranchisorServing on Franchisee BoardsAdvice for Aspiring FranchiseesChallenges of Franchise Ownership Beyond business, Brian shares a look into his life in Belmont, NC, where he enjoys time outdoors with his wife Barbara, their three children, and four grandchildren. From gardening and ATV riding to supporting military families, St. Jude, Boys & Girls Clubs, and hunger relief efforts, Brian’s commitment to service extends far beyond the restaurants he leads. This episode is packed with leadership lessons, heartfelt stories, and practical advice for anyone looking to grow in franchising—or inspire their teams to greatness. Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

 From graphic designer to CEO of a national family of franchise brands, Ryan Parsons has built a career defined by creativity and purpose. As the co-founder of the ‘Brothers That Just Do Gutters’ and now CEO of Evive Brands, Ryan shares how he's leading five franchise systems that help people live and thrive from home care to home improvement. From graphic designer to CEO of a national family of franchise brands, Ryan Parsons has built a career fueled by creativity, purpose, and grit. As the co-founder of The Brothers That Just Do Gutters and current CEO of Evive Brands, Ryan leads five franchise systems that help people live better — from home care to home improvement.In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser talks with Ryan about his incredible journey from a small family business to leading a thriving group of franchise brands with more than 1,000 territories across the country. Together, they discuss how Ryan and his brother turned a local gutter company into a trusted national brand — and how that same passion now drives his leadership at Evive Brands. Ryan opens up about building companies with heart, staying true to your purpose, and leading through transparency. He also shares insights on the power of strong branding, franchise growth, and adapting to new technology like AI. Plus, he explains why understanding unit economics and culture is key when expanding from one franchise brand to many. Ryan Parsons’ story is one of perseverance, vision, and continuous learning — and a great reminder that with purpose and persistence, creativity can grow into something truly life-changing. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:·     Ryan Parsons' Amazing Franchising Journey·     Challenges and Growth in Franchising·     Franchise Royalty and Territory Management·     Transparency in Franchise Operations·     Growth Strategies·     Qualities of Successful Franchisees·     Implementing AI in Business·     Parsons’ Proudest Achievements and Business Advice Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

What does it take to build more than 160 McAlister’s Deli restaurants, lead nearly 8,000 employees, and still live by the motto “Have fun. No regrets.”? In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser interviews David Blackburn, founder, former CEO, and current chairman of Southern Rock Restaurants, the largest McAlister’s Deli franchisee in the United States. From his humble start at Bonanza to leading one of America’s top restaurant franchise groups, David shares an inspiring story of growth, leadership, and purpose. With over 45 years of restaurant industry experience, David’s career has taken him from busboy to executive leadership, including serving as vice president of operations and business development for O’Charley’s Restaurants during its peak years. In 2006, he made the leap into restaurant entrepreneurship, launching Southern Rock Restaurants and expanding it into a multi-state powerhouse with 164 locations across 13 states. Along the way, he also owned upscale steak and Italian restaurants, proving his ability to succeed across diverse dining concepts. In this episode, David reveals his franchise leadership strategies, lessons in multi-unit operations, and the guiding principles that fuel sustainable success. He discusses the role of family involvement, the impact of trusted partners like Compel4 Accounting, and why he believes business should be as fun as it is meaningful. Now leading a growing multi-brand restaurant platform pursuing new acquisitions, David reflects on what it means to lead with purpose, grow with vision, and live with no regrets. This episode of FranchiseU! is a must-listen for anyone passionate about franchise growth, restaurant leadership, and entrepreneurial inspiration. Topics discussed include:·     David Blackburn's Career Journey·     Leadership Lessons from O'Charley's·     The meaning of ‘Have Fun, No Regrets’·     Family and Business at Southern Rock·     Managing Multi-Unit Operations·     Multi-Unit Operations Management Tips·     Effective Communication and Daily Routines·     Franchise Advisory Council Insights Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

From winning a Super Bowl with the Raiders to building one of the largest Auntie Anne’s franchise groups in the country, Ed Muransky has lived two extraordinary careers.In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser sits down with Ed Muransky, founder and CEO of the Muransky Companies, to discuss how lessons from the NFL shaped his approach to business and leadership. He shares how he grew his franchise portfolio—including Auntie Anne’s, Cinnabon, and Jamba Juice—while emphasizing the power of mentoring, relationships, and perseverance. Muransky also reflects on family involvement in business, his management philosophy, and the creative strategies behind initiatives like Auntie Anne’s pretzel trucks.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:·      Life lessons from NFL stardom·      Challenges and triumphs in franchising·      Leadership, employee perks, and management philosophy·      Family involvement in business success·      Innovative marketing strategies, like the Pretzel Truck·      The power of relationships in franchising·      Practical advice for aspiring franchisees Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

What do combat missions, data analytics, and warm cookies fresh from the oven all have in common? That is all part of my guest's incredible journey. Today I am joined by Nicholas Jewel, who is a decorated veteran-turned-entrepreneur, and now a multi-unit franchisee of Crumbl Cookies. While earning two Bronze stars as a combat controller in the Air National Guard, Nicholas led with courage, innovation, and resilience. Now he is channeling those skills into one of the fastest growing brands in franchising. You will hear how he made the leap from the military to franchising and what it takes to grow multiple units. You will also hear his advice for anyone dreaming of entrepreneurship, please take a listen.Nicholas Jewell is a multi-unit Crumbl Cookies franchisee in the Louisville Metro area. Nicholas’s path to franchising is anything but ordinary, spanning military service, entrepreneurship, logistics, and now cookie domination. He served 11 years as a combat controller in the Air National Guard, earning two Bronze Stars before shifting his focus to business. He founded a logistics company during the pandemic, completed a Master of Science in Business Analytics at the University of Louisville, and was recognized as a Louisville Business First 40 Under 40 honoree. Today, he is preparing to open his third Crumbl Cookies location, with plans for more growth on the horizon. What You’ll Learn In This Episode:Why franchising is not truly “passive income”—and the reality behind scaling a brand.How Nicholas's military background shaped his approach to teamwork, resilience, and leadership.The unique appeal of Crumbl Cookies’ open kitchen, rotating menu, and tech-driven customer experience.Advice for veterans considering franchising or entrepreneurship.Nicholas’s “3 C’s of Leadership”: Being Clear, Consistent, and Caring.The balance between corporate systems and local community engagement in franchising. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

You know what's great about franchising? It is that almost any concept can be franchised. And there's one I hadn't thought about. That is in the world of beauty, determining what colors look best on you. It's something that maybe those of us knew in the 80s and 90s, but House of Colour USA really knows what they're doing today. And I had the opportunity to visit House of Colour in this podcast with Ally Van Iten who is the CEO. She walks us through the franchise, the possibilities, what they do for people, and really what a wonderful opportunity it is. Please take a listen. In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser sits down with Ally Van Iten, CEO of House of Colour USA, to explore how a personal color analysis business from the 80s has grown into a thriving global franchise with over 400 stylists. Allie shares her inspiring journey from stay-at-home mom to franchisee, and ultimately to CEO, highlighting the flexibility and empowerment franchising made possible in her life. Together, Kathy and Ally unpack: ·       The emotional impact of House of Colour USA’s services—helping clients rediscover confidence and self-expression.·       How Ally transitioned from running six franchises to leading a fast-growing international brand.·       Why passion and people skills matter more than a beauty background for franchisees.·       How House of Colour trains, supports, and equips entrepreneurs for success.·       The role AI might play in the future of personal styling—and why human connection will always set House of Color apart. Whether you’re curious about franchising opportunities, fascinated by the science of color, or just love hearing a story of resilience and reinvention, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser speaks with Shelly Berkowitz, the esteemed founder of BrightStar Care. Berkowitz shares her inspiring journey from her early days working in corporate jobs to founding BrightStar, a premier medical and non-medical home healthcare and medical staffing service franchise. She recounts the challenges and successes she faced while growing BrightStar into a nationally recognized brand, her strategic decision to franchise, and her recent transition to starting a new venture called Founder to Founder. This venture aims to support and empower other founders in scaling their businesses. Berkowitz offers deep insights into her decision-making processes, the importance of resilience, and how the COVID-19 pandemic influenced her decision to sell BrightStar. The episode is a testament to Berkowitz's passion for franchising and her commitment to supporting other entrepreneurs. Shelly Berkowitz is the founder and CEO of Founder 2 Founder, offering objective, founder-aligned guidance from someone who’s been there. She is also the founder of BrightStar Care and the Executive Chairwoman of BrightStar Holdings Parent, LLC, the parent company of BrightStar Care and BrightStar Care Homes. Founder 2 Founder offers personalized, objective guidance to help founders with businesses that will be above $10million in EBITDA within 24 months scale or sell their company with confidence. Shelly Berkowitz’s journey as a founder began in 2002 with BrightStar Care, a national home healthcare and medical staffing company dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality care to families across the country. What began as a personal mission grew into a franchise system with more than 400 locations, employing over 20,000 professionals and generating $750 million in system-wide revenue. After more than 20 years as CEO, Berkowitz made the decision to transition from an active operational CEO role to a strategic Chairperson role, selling a majority stake in BrightStar to Peak Rock Capital while remaining a material shareholder and active board member. Today, Berkowitz is dedicated to helping other founders prepare for and navigate the complexities of scaling, selling, and stewarding their business legacies. Having lived the founder journey from start-up to successful exit, She brings a rare combination of operational insight and emotional understanding to one of the most personal and high-stakes decisions a founder can make. Berkowitz is also a mom of two, published author, keynote speaker and longtime advocate for women in business, home healthcare innovation and franchising excellence.

I have an opportunity, in my line of work, to talk to a lot of franchisees and a lot of franchisors. It's always enlightening, but it's very rare to be able to talk to someone who has been a franchisee of multiple brands and continues to give back even now with consulting. So join me in this episode of FranchiseU! when I talk with Ron Taylor. Ron has been a very successful franchisee of Edible Brands, and now is a franchisee of Nothing Bundt Cakes and SweatHouz and has his own consulting business. He has some wonderful insights to share with us.Taylor is the founder of Franchise Authentic, a brand rooted in real-world franchise experience and proven results. With a background as a top-performing franchisee and operator, he helps align aspiring entrepreneurs with the right franchise brand.Topics discussed include:Introduction and Guest OverviewRon Taylor's Franchise Journey BeginsScaling Edible ArrangementsThe SweatHouz ExperienceInsights on FranchisingEvaluating FranchisorsAdvice for Multi-Brand and Multi-Unit OwnersMisconceptions About FranchisingThe Importance of Creativity and Following RulesAdvice for Aspiring FranchiseesDon’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

So many of us have heard about Magnolia Bakery. It's been famous from TV shows like Sex in the City; and Only Murders in the Building. They have delicious cupcakes and banana pudding, just all the wonderful things. But what's really exciting is… Magnolia Bakery has just announced that they are going to start franchising here in the US and there are so many opportunities available.In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser welcomes Bobbie Lloyd and Jason Mattes from Magnolia Bakery as they walk us through the Magnolia Bakery story and where they're headed.Topics discussed include:Bobbie Lloyd's Culinary JourneyJason Mattes' Franchise Development StoryMagnolia Bakery's Global ExpansionThe Hub and Spoke Model: Flagship and No-Bake StoresQualities of a Successful FranchiseeTraining and Support for FranchiseesChoosing Franchise Locations and PartnersAdvice for Aspiring FranchiseesDon’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

The International Franchise Association does so much to protect, enhance, and support the franchise model. It's really pretty incredible the amount of work they do, but sometimes people don't know exactly what do they do. So join me in this episode of FranchiseU! where I have the privilege of sitting down with Matt Hower, the CEO of the IFA and Jennifer branding the COO of the IFA, or they talk about not only their journeys to franchising, but all the things that the IFA offers and has done to ensure this model stays alive and helps millions of people who work with and thrive within it. In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser sits down with Matt Haller, the CEO, and Jennifer Brandeen, the COO, of the International Franchise Association (IFA). They discuss the extensive efforts of the IFA in protecting, enhancing, and promoting the franchise model. Topics discussed include:·     Introduction to the IFA·     Matt Haller's Journey to the IFA·     Jennifer Brandeen's Path to Franchising·     Mission and Role of the IFA·     Misconceptions About Franchising·     Franchising's Economic Impact·     IFA Events and Education·     Franchise Update Media Acquisition·     Educational Initiatives and Digital Ecosystem·     Franchise Ascension Initiative·     Future of Franchising Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

Agape Capitalism. What is that and why would I be talking about that on a franchising podcast? Well join me in this episode of FranchiseU! as I talk with Jane Abell and Tony Capuano of Donatos Pizza. Jane is the chairwoman of the board, and Tony is her son, who is also the Senior Vice President of Franchise Operations and Training. They take us along the journey of Donatos when it was created by her father who started in 1963. They sold to McDonald's and then bought it back from McDonald's. They also talk about how they have woven the whole theory of combining love and capitalism into a very successful enterprise. Topics discussed include:·     Meet Jane Abell and Tony Capuano·     Jane Abell's Journey with Donatos·     Tony Capuano's Career Path·     The Donatos Story: From Creation to McDonald's to Independence·     Donatos Current Growth and Future Plans·     Agape Capitalism: Leading with Love·     Navigating Family Business Challenges·     The Rewards of Family Business Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupodReach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business. 

One thing that almost all of us have in common is the desire to live a healthy, long life. There is now a franchise to help with proactively taking control of your health. Join me in this episode of FranchiseU! as I talk with Scott Svilich, the COO of Next Health. The only large scale franchise providing medically backed healthcare services with a proactive approach to prioritizing health and fitness. Topics discussed include:·     Meet Scott Svilich: From Trainer to COO·     Scott's Journey in the Fitness Industry·     Transition to Exponential Fitness·     Innovative Services at Next Health·     Membership Model and Franchising·     Franchising Strategy and Growth·     Financials and Profit Margins·     Ideal Franchise Partners Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupodReach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn.This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

Dr. Kathy Gosser interviews Amy Leclerc, co-founder of Sit Still Kids Salon franchise. The discussion covers Leclerc’s journey from advertising to leading a kids' hair salon franchise. Highlights Include:Tips from a successful professional pathBenefits of intuition and risk-takingSage advice for potential franchiseesA case study in growth and expansion plansQualities of an ideal franchiseeMarketing strategies for franchiseesDon’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website:FranchiseU!Instagram:@franchiseu_podcastFacebook:@FranchiseU PodcastTwitter:@franchiseupodTikTok:@franchiseupodReachout directly to Dr.Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn.Thisepisode proudly brought to you by the Centerfor Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

Dr. Kathy Gosser interviews James Hilovsky, a dedicated franchise broker and the CEO of FranDream. Hilovsky shares his journey from spending 25 years at Del Taco to transitioning to franchise brokering. Highlights Include:Hilovsky's Early Career at Del TacoPiology Pizza and Franchise OperationsDifferences Between Corporate and Franchise SidesEvaluating Franchise Opportunities and Client ProfilesExploring Franchise OpportunitiesNegotiating Franchise TermsSuccess Stories in FranchisingDon’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupodReach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn.This episode proudly brought to you by the Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

You should learn something new every day. Those words come from a new Potbelly franchisee, Hampden Keil, who started a multi-unit franchise with his father, Bryant Keil, the founder of Potbelly. Join me in this episode of FranchiseU! as we hear Hampden talk about his experience and how he and his dad are creating a Potbelly dynasty, starting with 13 restaurants with plans to add 15 more. In this episode of FranchiseU!, I interview Hampden Keil, COO of the Keil Group, LLC, to discuss his journey into the restaurant industry and his experience in building a Potbelly Sandwich Works multi-unit franchise business alongside, Bryant Keil, his father. Keil talks about his background in journalism, his extensive experience in the restaurant industry, and the valuable lessons he learned working at Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises. The conversation delves into the Keil Group's ambitious plans to expand their footprint by adding new Potbelly units to their existing 13, the importance of operational systems, and the evolving dynamics of family-run businesses. Keil also offers insights into the challenges of hiring and training staff, the significance of having a strong support system, and the advantages of being a Potbelly franchisee. Topics discussed include: 1. Keil’s Early Career & Education A.   Experiences as a Journalist B.   Experiences at Lettuce Entertain You C.  Experiences at Joe's Brewery D.  Experiences at the Keil Group 2. The Potbelly Brand & Legacy A.   Founding and Evolution of Potbelly B.   Unique Franchising Model and Operations C.  Benefits of Checklists and Operational Standards D.  Advantages of becoming a Potbelly Franchisee 3. Working with Family A.   Definite division of roles: Hampden handles operations; Bryant focuses on growth and development. B.  Benefits of complementary working styles (realistic vs. creative). C.  Benefits of daily catch-up calls that blend business and personal conversation. 4. Advantages of Becoming a Franchisee A.   Quality product and brand identity. B.   Strong corporate support and operational guidance. C.  Opportunity for personal and professional support. 5. Advice for Aspiring Franchisees and Students A.   Be prepared for the shift from floor operations to oversight. B.   Confidence grows with experience. C.  Constant learning and listening to experienced team members are key. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupodReach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn.This episode proudly brought to you by the Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

I'm not the techiest person around. And so when I was approached to talk to a couple of folks about geofencing, I thought, geo what? So I had to take a look, find out what it was, but then it fascinated me, and it is a way for a small franchise to really maximize their foot traffic. So in this episode of FranchiseU!, I talk with Ernesto Cullari and Barbara Wardell, who've come up with an incredible concept. In this episode of FranchiseU!, I ask Ernesto and Barbara to share their initial curiosity and subsequent fascination with geofencing. They discuss how this technology can help small franchises increase their foot traffic and more. This conversation has some very innovative uses of the geofencing concept. Topics discussed include:1. Understanding Geofencing2. Benefits of Geofencing include:Increased Foot TrafficTargeted MarketingEnhanced Customer Engagement3. How to embrace Geofencing4. Learn more at the Cullari and Wardell Ad Agency WebsiteErnesto Cullari is a multifaceted creative professional writer, commercial photographer, director, and Co-founder and CMO; renowned for pioneering GPS-based, location-based advertising. With expertise in content creation, digital advertising, and marketing strategy, he has worked with a wide range of high-profile brands and personalities. He was a regular on-air contributor and producer for The Financial Quarterback™ and has an extensive background in the music industry, having led artist development for Grammy-winning KNS Productions. A published songwriter and columnist, Cullari’s writing has appeared on Fox News and in triCityNews. In 2012, he ran for U.S. Congress as a GOP candidate in Monmouth County. Follow Ernesto Cullari on LinkedIn Barbara Wardell is a seasoned marketing and ad professional who left behind a very successful career in the specialty medicine world to become a disruptor on behalf of small businesses. She has a focused and competitive mindset she uses to guide, Cullari & Wardell, a geofencing ad agency. Wardell focuses on what makes her clients strong and their competition weak. She then uses GPS location data to match would-be customers to her client’s strengths, thereby best positioning her clients for success. The measurable results in terms of increased foot traffic and online conversations are game-changing. Beyond her professional pursuits, Wardell is a proud mother of two outstanding young men, balancing her role as a dedicated businesswoman with a passion for enjoying life to the fullest and spending quality time with family and friends. Follow Barbara Wardell on Instagram.Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupodReach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn.This episode proudly brought to you by the Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser and Dr. Isabel Botero joined by Bonny and Marcus Shelton, who share their incredible journey as multi-generational KFC franchisees. The Sheltons recount the inspiring history of Bacon Enterprises, Inc., starting with Bonnie's father in the 1960s, through their significant contributions to the KFC community, and culminating in the successful exit from their family business. They discuss the keys to their success, including family unity, clear communication, and strong ethical values. The Sheltons also share their strategies for managing a family-owned business, the importance of transparent operating agreements, and their comprehensive approach to ensuring the well-being of their employees during the sale. This episode provides valuable insights into maintaining family harmony while achieving business success.Time Topic00:00 Introduction and Co-Host Welcome00:20 Meet the Shelton Family: Multi-Generational KFC Franchisees01:27 Bonnie's Story: The Early Days of Bacon Enterprises04:10 A Family Business: Challenges and Triumphs07:14 Marcus's Journey: From Childhood Memories to Business Leader12:10 The Next Generation: Roles of the Shelton Daughters15:27 Growth and Leadership: Expanding the Franchise18:25 Working Together: Family Dynamics in Business22:46 Balancing Family and Business23:12 Leadership and Conflict Resolution27:35 Values and Principles in Family Business28:34 Decision to Sell the Business31:20 Navigating the Sale Process37:36 Celebrating and Reflecting on Success40:03 Advice for Family Businesses42:58 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser speaks with Jamie Krasnov, CEO of Apex Leadership Company, about his journey from finance to philanthropy-driven entrepreneurship. Krasnov discusses his background in private equity, his passion for franchising, and the innovative fundraising solutions provided by Apex Leadership. Apex conducts fun runs and other events at schools to raise funds significantly while teaching leadership, fitness, and wellness. Krasnov explains the franchise model, emphasizing its low entry cost and the support provided to franchisees. Apex aims to serve thousands of schools, driven by a mission to build future leaders and support underprivileged communities. Jamie Krasnov is a dedicated business leader who currently holds the position of CEO at Apex Leadership Company. In this role, Krasnov has been instrumental in steering the company's strategy and execution to increase value to the Apex franchisees and Apex schools across the nation. His determination to elevate the company’s led to the brand seeing an outstanding 200% revenue increase since he took stepped into the role as CEO in 2021. Before his tenure at Apex, Krasnov founded Heritage Operating Partners, a private equity firm supported by other operators concentrated on fast-growing franchisors. Prior to Heritage, Krasnov served in various investing roles across private equity, public equity, and investment banking for a decade. He graduated with honors from the University of Texas. Krasnov resides in Houston, Texas, where he enjoys spending time with family and his two dogs.