Hard Hats and Business Hats: Protect Your Contracting Future with Franchising
Release Date: 10/06/2025
Quit Getting Screwed Podcast
A forward-thinking CPA becomes a champion for AI-driven innovation in construction through vision, expertise, and execution. Victor Sturgis applied his extensive background in public accounting and tax to create technology that streamlines contract management. Motivated by complex industry challenges, he co-founded First Rule, where he drives strategic partnerships and oversees change management. Through a balance of technical insight and human-centered design, he helps contractors move beyond resistance and adopt transformative tools that redefine operational efficiency. Learn more about ....
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In this episode, Karalynn discusses termination for convenience clauses in commercial and residential contracts. She explains how these clauses can expose contractors to risk and shares practical strategies for negotiating fairer terms. Her goal is to help businesses protect themselves and succeed. Love the show? Please rate, review and share! Follow Karalynn Cromeens on . Follow Karalynn Cromeens on . Follow Karalynn Cromeens on . Watch the show on . Learn more about The Cromeens Law Firm . Grab Karalynn's new book Trust Your Gut . Key Takeaways...
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Change orders are critical in the construction industry. Karalynn draws from decades of experience to explain that only written, signed documents can legally alter a contract’s terms. Verbal agreements or side conversations simply don’t hold up. Understanding and properly handling change orders is essential to avoid getting screwed on extra work. Love the show? Please rate, review and share! Follow Karalynn Cromeens on . Follow Karalynn Cromeens on . Follow Karalynn Cromeens on . Watch the show on . Learn more about The Cromeens Law Firm . Grab Karalynn's...
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Karalynn Cromeens, a construction litigator, stresses that contractors shouldn’t fear writing their own contracts. Clear, straightforward language is the best way to manage client expectations and protect your business. Complex legalese and borrowed contracts often lead to expensive errors. With simple guidance and attention to state laws, anyone can create an effective contract that truly works. Join her as she reads chapter three of her new book . Love the show? Please rate, review and share! Follow Karalynn Cromeens on . Follow Karalynn Cromeens on . Follow...
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Rely on your instincts before signing any contract. When clients reveal early warning signs or try to change agreements, it’s best to walk away. Use clear, simple contracts and set firm boundaries to keep trouble at bay. Never let financial pressure outweigh your judgment—this helps you avoid unnecessary stress, expensive errors, and lawsuits. This episode features a reading from chapter two of Karalynn's newest book, . Love the show? Please rate, review and share! Follow Karalynn Cromeens on . Follow Karalynn Cromeens on . Follow Karalynn Cromeens on . Watch the...
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This episode originally aired on May 02, 2022. In this week’s episode, Karalynn is joined by construction attorney, Caroline Beavers, to discuss how the modern subcontract is broken and the best practices to break it down and negotiate it! If you are a subcontractor and tired of getting screwed over by your contracts, tune in and get informed on how YOU can best navigate the modern-day subcontract! The best way to level the playing field is to equip subs with the knowledge and know-how, and this episode does a great job of doing exactly that in a plain-English, easy-to-grasp format. ...
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Karalynn welcomes Adam Goldman to the show to explore the fundamentals of franchising and what it really takes to turn a franchise into lasting wealth. Adam begins by clarifying what sets buying a franchise apart from building one yourself, highlighting how established brands come equipped with tested systems and reliable processes. In this episode, Adam walks through the typical investments and startup costs involved in franchising. He breaks down the importance of operational support and marketing resources, emphasizing how these tools can make or break a new business owner’s success....
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A lot can go wrong when a contractor signs a subcontract without reading the fine print, and too many people don’t realize the risk until it’s too late. founder and co-CEO Eliot Wagonheim has seen firsthand the impact of dangerous contract provisions. In this episode, you’ll hear about: What flow down provisions can mean for your bottom line Why notice and indemnity matter more than you think How to handle pay when paid clauses and termination for convenience This is a conversation for anyone working in commercial construction who wants real solutions. When you subscribe...
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Break the mold, build your brand. Victoria King Meyer did just that. Karalynn welcomes Victoria, founder of Progressio Global and The Chemical Show, as they dive into reinventing success beyond corporate walls. Victoria’s leap from chemical engineer and industry executive to entrepreneur shines with strategy, storytelling, and bold community building. Discover why podcasting, events, and mastermind groups power her impact, learn the real challenges of scaling, hiring, and letting go for growth, and explore the transformative role of personal branding for leaders ready to chart their own...
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In construction, especially on public works projects, you can’t rely on mechanics liens to protect your right to payment. Government immunity takes that tool off the table. That’s why, in , I break down another critical layer of protection: payment and performance bonds. These bonds can be the difference between finishing a job and walking away empty-handed. Today, I’ll walk you through exactly how bonds work, why they’re required on public projects, and what every subcontractor needs to know before signing on the dotted line. Because while bonds protect against non-payment and...
info_outlineKaralynn welcomes Adam Goldman to the show to explore the fundamentals of franchising and what it really takes to turn a franchise into lasting wealth. Adam begins by clarifying what sets buying a franchise apart from building one yourself, highlighting how established brands come equipped with tested systems and reliable processes.
In this episode, Adam walks through the typical investments and startup costs involved in franchising. He breaks down the importance of operational support and marketing resources, emphasizing how these tools can make or break a new business owner’s success. Listeners will learn about various franchise models—some requiring hands-on management of employees, others relying on subcontractors.
Adam shares his approach to matching clients with the ideal franchise brand, outlining the critical skills and mindset needed to thrive in the industry. The conversation covers income opportunities, royalty fees, and the different options available if you ever decide to exit your franchise.
Beyond franchising, Adam touches on additional strategies for wealth creation, such as investing in index funds and real estate. He explains how these alternatives can complement or diversify a business owner’s income stream.
Adam also discusses his coaching process and the resources he provides for those curious about entering the franchising world. Whether you’re just starting out or considering a major career move, this episode delivers practical advice and reliable guidance for anyone thinking about franchise ownership.
Follow Adam on YouTube, LinkedIn, listen to The Franchise Consultant Podcast, and learn about his franchise services here.
Love the show? Please rate, review and share!
Follow Karalynn Cromeens on Facebook here.
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Follow Karalynn Cromeens on LinkedIn here.
Watch the show on YouTube here.
Learn more about The Cromeens Law Firm here.
Grab your copy of Quit Getting Screwed here, and her new book Trust Your Gut here.
Key Takeaways
1. Franchising is a powerful way to build wealth because it allows individuals to leverage established brands and proven business models, reducing the risks and time involved in starting a business from scratch. The systemization and support provided by the franchisor can make entering entrepreneurship more accessible and scalable.
2. Running a franchise is not a completely passive investment; it requires business acumen, dedication, involvement in operations, and sometimes hiring and managing a team. Franchises come with ready-made systems, but the franchisee is still responsible for execution.
3. Franchises are not limited to food and retail—there is a wide variety spanning multiple industries, including services that utilize subcontractor models, such as maid services or storm-related construction businesses. Each franchise model comes with unique operational structures and requirements.
4. Investing in a franchise can require a significant upfront investment, with costs varying depending on the type (brick-and-mortar vs. service-based). Ongoing royalty fees are standard, and franchisees can earn daily or monthly depending on the business model. The scalability and potential for multiple streams of income make franchises attractive for those looking to grow wealth.
5. Beyond franchising, wealth creation can be bolstered through investments in index funds, real estate, and multiple income streams. Diversification is key; relying solely on one area is risky. Adam Goldman advocates for a balanced approach—investing profits from one venture into others for long-term security.