In this special episode, Gresham Harkless Jr. frames the show as a resource for anyone building a business, emphasizing the value of sharing real‑time experiences and encouraging listeners to subscribe for more content.

He then recounts his personal experience with layoffs, beginning with his first layoff in his early twenties, describes the fear, disappointment, and feeling of being misled that came with a reduction in force, noting how the instability of early jobs forced him to confront the reality that no one—​not even CEOs—​is immune to job loss.

This turning point sparked a mindset shift: rather than waiting for another opportunity, he decided to “burn the boats” and pursue entrepreneurship, recognizing that the stakes would feel far higher later in life when family responsibilities increase.

Seeing franchising as a hybrid path that blends entrepreneurial ownership with a proven business model, Gresham explains why he gravitated toward this avenue. He is compiling resources, such as a “layoff survival list,” to help others facing similar setbacks and hopes to connect with listeners who might become franchise candidates. 

• Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com


• Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise


• Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment


• Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co

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I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!