Franchise Secrets Podcast

Franchising specialist Erik Van Horn reveals the secrets he uses as a franchisee, consultant, investor and entrepreneur. Join us every Tuesday to learn tactical and practical tools that will help you buy, grow, and sell franchises like an expert.

The Exit Playbook: How Top Franchisees Are Cashing Out for Millions 06/03/2025

The Exit Playbook: How Top Franchisees Are Cashing Out for Millions 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 /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/36817855

The #1 Mistake That Destroys Emerging Franchise Brands (And Nobody Talks About It) 05/27/2025

The #1 Mistake That Destroys Emerging Franchise Brands (And Nobody Talks About It) 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 /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/36727520

5 Myths Multi-Unit Franchisees Believe (That Kill Growth and Profit) With Derek Pipkorn 05/20/2025

5 Myths Multi-Unit Franchisees Believe (That Kill Growth and Profit) With Derek Pipkorn 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 - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 Franchise Springboard - Connect with Derek Pipkorn: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/36564775

Franchising and Venture Capital: The Power Duo for Explosive Growth With Yoni Rechtman 05/13/2025

Franchising and Venture Capital: The Power Duo for Explosive Growth With Yoni Rechtman 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 - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 Franchise Springboard - Connect with Yoni Rechtman: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/36504345

Why Radical Transparency is Key to Growing Your Franchise Brand With Brigham Dallas 05/06/2025

Why Radical Transparency is Key to Growing Your Franchise Brand With Brigham Dallas Building a successful franchise isn’t just about growth—it’s about creating the right foundation for your franchisees to thrive. Discover the secrets behind scaling franchises from someone who’s been there and done that. In this episode, Brigham Dallas, a franchise industry expert and owner of Hello Sugar, returns to discuss what it truly takes to grow and sustain a franchise brand. Brigham and Erik discuss why early franchisee success is critical to your brand’s long-term success and how radical transparency can help avoid false expectations. They dive into the importance of hiring the right people, empowering them to make decisions, and ensuring they align with the brand’s vision. Brigham also explains how micro decisions made by team members can significantly impact a franchise’s future. If you want to scale your brand and build a franchise that lasts, don’t miss this episode! “I do not want a franchisee getting into this business with false expectations. I want them coming into the business knowing exactly what they're getting into and knowing that what we are providing is like there's no surprises—no hiccups, no red flags that come after the marriage." ~ Brigham Dallas In This Episode: - Building the foundation for franchise growth - Where most brands fail early in the business - The value of Item 19 and radical transparency in franchising - Human receptionists vs. AI, and Brigham's bold decision - Brigham's mission as a franchisor - Setting the right expectations with franchisees - How to align franchisees with your brand’s vision - The benefits of working with Front Street Equity Partners - How Brigham helps franchisees succeed - Hello Sugar's revenue generation scheme for franchisees Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 Franchise Springboard - Connect with Brigham Dallas: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/36407550

Built to Scale: How Great Franchisors Think Differently With Jeff Herr 04/29/2025

Built to Scale: How Great Franchisors Think Differently With Jeff Herr What makes a successful franchisor stand out from the rest? It's not just about expanding quickly—it’s about building a brand that can scale and stand the test of time. In this episode, Jeff Herr of Front Street Equity Partners returns to exchange views with Erik Van Horn. They discuss what sets great franchisors apart from the average ones, why strategic growth and brand consistency are crucial, how the most effective franchisors foster strong relationships with their franchisees, and the importance of establishing standards that can be consistently applied and scaled. Whether you're a franchisor looking to expand or a franchisee considering joining a system, this episode offers valuable insights into building a business designed for growth. If you want to learn how to build a franchise that stands the test of time, tune in to find out the strategies you need to scale successfully. “The best franchisors are the ones who are working on things so that the business can ramp faster than it did a year ago." ~ Jeff Herr In This Episode: - Creating a compelling brand story - What sets great franchise founders apart - Strategic vs. rushed franchise growth - Building equity by compressing time - Making scalable strategies for franchise growth - Balancing innovation with franchise consistency - Hiring and delegating the right responsibilities - Protecting brand integrity and the need for enforcing brand standards - Franchisors supporting franchisees for long-term success Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 Franchise Springboard - 🌐 Master the Six Stages of Franchise Relationships for Success - Connect with Jeff Herr: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/36334160

The Truth About Passive Income: It’s Not What You’ve Been Told With Russ Morgan 04/22/2025

The Truth About Passive Income: It’s Not What You’ve Been Told With Russ Morgan If you think passive income means sitting back and letting the money roll in, think again! In this episode, we uncover the truth behind passive income and why it’s not as simple as it seems. Join Erik Van Horn as he talks to financial expert Russ Morgan about the realities of passive income. They delve into why most people’s expectations about passive income are misguided and discuss strategies to create genuine wealth without relying solely on traditional investment methods. Russ explains how to use tools like the Augusta Rule and shares insights from his experience helping clients build sustainable financial futures. Discover how entrepreneurs can build wealth without Wall Street and learn about the Passive Income Roadmap. Tune in now to hear why passive income is more than just a buzzword—it’s a strategy for long-term financial success! Join the passive income revolution today! “What are we doing with our dollars? Is it getting us more of what we want or less of what we want? It's not an accumulation plan. The person who wins this game doesn't have ten million dollars in an account in the future. The person who wins this game has more passive income coming in than monthly expenses that they could never run out of. That is financial freedom." ~ Russ Morgan In This Episode: - The value of hiring a coach - Is your CPA knowledgeable about The Augusta Rule? - Money mistakes and the obstacle to financial freedom - Becoming a good steward of your finances - Active vs. passive income and activating PIOS - Mistakes people commit as they start building passive income - How the market's sugar rush impacts investors - The framework for building passive income - Understanding your "investor buy box" for smart decisions - Investing with the right people vs. just the right deal - Passive income ideas you can try Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 Franchise Springboard - 🌐 Grab Your Wealth Building Tools Here - 🌐 The Passive Income Roadmap - Connect with Russ Morgan: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/36259600

What They Don’t Teach You at Wharton About Building Franchises With Adam Ross 04/15/2025

What They Don’t Teach You at Wharton About Building Franchises With Adam Ross What they don’t teach you at Wharton could be the key to building the next big beauty brand. In today’s episode, Erik Van Horn welcomes Adam Ross, former CEO of Heyday and current partner at Front Street Equity Partners. Adam shares invaluable insights from his journey, transitioning from banking to entrepreneurship, leveraging his MBA from Wharton, and scaling Heyday into a beauty powerhouse. He dives into why beauty is still one of the biggest white spaces in the US and why brands like goGLOW might be the next success story. Adam discusses building brand leaders, trust between franchisees and franchisors, and the importance of strategic partnerships in franchise growth. Tune in for a masterclass on franchising, brand-building, and the future of the beauty industry! Subscribe to hear more from industry leaders and gain insider strategies for franchise success. “To be successful, you've got to come up with a product that is unique and meaningfully different than anything that's out there. And I think you've got to complement that with a brand that is also quite differentiated and has different pillars and legs versus anything else that's out there in the category." ~ Adam Ross In This Episode: - Adam's shift from banking to entrepreneurship - Key MBA lessons that shaped Adam’s real-world success - Heyday’s position in today’s industry - Adam’s entrepreneurial strengths and skills - Why Adam stepped down as Heyday CEO - Partnering with Front Street Equity Partners - Taking a small brand to the next level - Heyday’s evolution: early operations to present - The importance of trust between franchisees and franchisors - Why working with a strategic partner is beneficial - Adam’s drive to support emerging brands - Advice for franchisees working with emerging brands Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 Franchise Springboard - 🌐 goGLOW - Connect with Adam Ross: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/36123670

Franchising Is Broken Without Recurring Revenue (And Most Brands Overlook It) With Stu McLaren 04/08/2025

Franchising Is Broken Without Recurring Revenue (And Most Brands Overlook It) With Stu McLaren What if your franchise could generate predictable profits every month without the constant hustle? In this episode, Stu McLaren, an expert on memberships and recurring revenue, reveals the missing link that most franchises overlook. Stu and Erik dive deep into the world of memberships and how they can transform any franchise system. Whether you're a franchisor or a franchisee, understanding the importance of predictable profits and creating a community can unlock massive growth potential. Stu shares key insights on building effective membership models that generate consistent income and discusses the critical mindset shift needed for business owners to go beyond just one-off transactions. He emphasizes the significance of focusing on transformation and how franchises can leverage this to scale. Stu also reveals strategies for building communities that engage and retain customers, all while avoiding common pitfalls. Want to learn how to add recurring revenue to your business? Tune in for actionable tips to skyrocket your growth and stabilize your cash flow. “It's not about the stuff; it's the transformation. That's what people are buying. If you can give people the transformation in a shorter amount of time and make it easier, it makes an absolute no-brainer. So it's not about the volume, it's about the transformation." ~ Stu McLaren In This Episode: - Stu McLaren’s background in entrepreneurship - How membership models are relevant to franchisees - The different types of memberships - Developing a subscription model within a franchise system - Case studies of successful membership models - Mistakes to avoid when creating a membership model - Why giving too much might hurt your offer and what to do instead - Lessons from Stu McLaren’s book, Predictable Profits - Why franchisors should consider membership models Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 Franchise Springboard - 🌐 Book: Predictable Profits by Stu McLaren - Connect with Stu McLaren: 🌐 Website - and 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/36049390

Buy a Business, Not a Job – The Franchisee Wake-Up Call 04/01/2025

Buy a Business, Not a Job – The Franchisee Wake-Up Call Are you buying a franchise to own a business, or are you just getting another job? In this episode, Erik Van Horn and Jeff Herr challenge potential franchisees to think beyond just becoming employees in their own business. He explores the key difference between buying a business and merely buying a job and why it’s crucial to understand this distinction. Erik shares practical advice for future franchise owners, emphasizing the importance of building effective systems, understanding territory management, and having the right leadership in place. If you’re planning to buy a franchise, you must learn how to scale smartly, leverage profit-sharing models, and avoid common mistakes that can trap you into working in your business rather than on it. Discover how to turn your franchise into a true business venture!! “Anything can be semi-absentee if you hire the right people to do the work that you're not doing." ~ Erik Van Horn In This Episode: - Jeff's background as a franchisee - Building franchise equity with the right mindset - Success strategy: focus on strengths, hire for weaknesses - Tracking KPIs for franchise success - Are you attracting the right customers? - Networking with local businesses for growth - Collaboration with complementary businesses - The impact of hiring the right manager for your business - How hard are you working on your business? - Final thoughts from Erik and Jeff Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 Franchise Springboard - Connect with Jeff Herr: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/35945890

Why Buying Resale & Semi-Absentee Ownership Works For Some—But Not All 03/25/2025

Building a Recession-Proof Air Quality Franchise: The Modern PURAIR Story With Lane Martin 03/18/2025

Building a Recession-Proof Air Quality Franchise: The Modern PURAIR Story With Lane Martin Can you build a business that thrives in any economy? Lane Martin, co-founder of Modern PURAIR®, reveals the secrets behind creating Canada’s fastest-growing air quality franchise. From navigating challenges to empowering franchisees, this episode is your guide to recession-proof success. Today, Erik Van Horn sits down with Lane Martin, the driving force behind Modern PURAIR, to explore how this air quality franchise is setting the standard for success even in challenging economic times. Lane shares insights into what makes Modern PURAIR a standout brand, offering franchisees multiple revenue streams, innovative technology, and a proven playbook for growth. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or considering a franchise opportunity, this conversation is packed with strategies and inspiration to build a business that thrives in any economy. Tune in and learn what it takes to succeed! “If entrepreneurship were an easy journey, everybody would do it. We speak about that a lot. And a great mindset coach of mine a few years ago taught me a great thing—it's like how you deal with the 'hard.' If you know that 'hard' is gonna come (which it does cause building and growing any business is a difficult thing), be grateful when there's days where you're in cruise control mode." ~ Lane Martin In This Episode: - Lane Martin’s background and story - What defines an entrepreneur’s journey? - Tackling the challenges of territory expansion - The role of indoor air quality in Lane’s business - Importance of KPIs in business - Revenue streams at Modern PURAIR - How franchisors help improve franchisee KPIs using AI - The Zero to 500 Playbook by Modern PURAIR Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - Connect with Lane Martin: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/35720630

Scaling with Strategy: The Smart Growth Playbook Behind goGLOW’s Success 03/11/2025

Scaling with Strategy: The Smart Growth Playbook Behind goGLOW’s Success Growing a franchise isn’t just about selling locations–it’s about smart, sustainable scaling. Learn how goGLOW is doing it right! Today, Erik Van Horn welcomes back goGLOW founder Melanie Richards to discuss what smart franchise growth really looks like. Melanie shares how she scaled goGLOW from a single location to a rapidly growing franchise by strategically selecting franchise partners, securing the right vendor relationships, and staying financially disciplined. She also reveals why growing too fast can kill a franchise and how founders can avoid common scaling mistakes. goGLOW’s rapid yet strategic expansion proves that smart growth beats fast growth every time. Melanie breaks down the key factors behind goGLOW’s franchise success, from selecting the right partners to managing territories effectively. She also reveals how strategic partnerships play a vital role in scaling, and why franchise owners must think long-term when making growth decisions. With private equity interest growing, Melanie opens up about the challenges of balancing investment opportunities while staying true to the brand’s mission. Do you want to learn more about the strategy behind goGLOW’s success? Tune in to hear how smart scaling can make all the difference! To learn more about goGLOWs smart growth strategies, you can also listen to this past episode: How goGLOW Built a Franchise Employees Love and Customers Trust With Tori Johnston - “I did see where goGLOW can go. I knew its possibilities, but I wasn't going to do that unless I had the right partners. Franchising is a completely different industry than what I'm in, and I made sure I had experts to go into that world with me." ~ Melanie Richards In This Episode: - What smart growth means for goGLOW - How goGLOW built a scalable foundation - Taking the right steps with the right people - The power of strategic partnerships - Hiring key team members for franchise growth - The importance of investing in the right people - Selecting vendors that support franchisees - How goGLOW improved on-site training - Balancing growth speed vs. sustainability - The role of financial discipline in growth Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 Franchise UnConference - 🌐 Franchise Springboard - Connect with Melanie Richards: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/35575660

Mom-and-Pop to Millions: How This Guy Scaled a Janitorial Business & Jersey Mike’s Franchise 03/04/2025

How Franchise Owners Can Grow & Protect Wealth With Caleb Guilliams 02/25/2025

How Franchise Owners Can Grow & Protect Wealth With Caleb Guilliams What if you could grow, protect, and access your money—tax-free—while building long-term wealth? In this episode, financial expert Caleb Guilliams joins Erik Van Horn to discuss how franchise owners and entrepreneurs can use life insurance as a powerful tool to maximize cash flow, reduce taxes, and create financial freedom. Don’t miss these game-changing strategies! Caleb is a financial expert, author of The AND Asset, and founder of BetterWealth. Today, he shares how business owners can use life insurance as a financial tool to grow, protect, and access their wealth tax-efficiently. From optimizing cash flow to leveraging smart tax strategies, this episode dives deep into how franchisees and business owners can maximize their financial potential while minimizing risk. Caleb also breaks down common misconceptions about life insurance and why it can be a powerful wealth-building tool when structured correctly. If you’re a business owner looking to build long-term wealth, this episode is a must-listen! “I believe that you are your greatest asset. Your ability to think and show up is the greatest asset, and I think a lot of people are undermining it. And so, I ask, 'What can I do to encourage them to have more energy and smile?' Because most of the time, happier people make more money, have more clarity, and are more confident." ~ Caleb Guilliams In This Episode: - Caleb’s path to financial expertise - Using life insurance for cash flow - Infinite banking explained - The biggest misconception about infinite banking - Tax-advantaged strategies for growing your wealth - Structuring life insurance for maximum benefits - When to start using life insurance - Life insurance vs. Roth - Practical advice from Caleb - How to grow your wealth - Living an intentional life - How to create value for the world Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 Grab the Wealth-Building Resources from Caleb Guilliams - Connect with Caleb Guilliams: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/35402105

Can You Really Get Rich Owning a Franchise? Debunking Myths 02/18/2025

Can You Really Get Rich Owning a Franchise? Debunking Myths Is franchising really the secret to wealth, or is it just another risky business model? In this episode, Erik Van Horn takes a deep dive into franchise profitability, investment strategies, and common myths surrounding wealth-building in franchising. Erik shares real-life examples of franchisees who built multi-million dollar businesses and those who lost everything. He reveals why choosing the right brand, market timing, and strong operations are critical for success. Erik also explains why franchising isn’t a passive income stream unless structured correctly. Discover how franchisees actually build wealth (and what stops them), the biggest myths about franchising and financial freedom, how to scale smartly through multi-unit ownership and acquisitions, and why some franchisees fail despite picking a "good brand." Listen now to unlock the real wealth-building strategies in franchising! “The best franchisees are the best marketers, the best operational people, and the best at making decisions–they are the best at anything it takes to be a really successful entrepreneur." ~ Erik Van Horn In This Episode: - Losing money and making a lot of money in franchising - How timing affects franchise success - Does franchising guarantee success? - Why some franchisees fail despite picking "good brands" - Is franchising a passive income model? - Why franchising is a great path to building wealth - Why some franchisees struggle financially - What franchisors can do to succeed - Can strong franchisees overcome a weak brand? - Erik's advice for franchisors and franchisees Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 How To Choose The Best Franchise For You With Guest Eric Stites - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/35314250

Buying a Franchise? Avoid These Costly Mistakes & Choose the Right One 02/11/2025

Buying a Franchise? Avoid These Costly Mistakes & Choose the Right One Are you thinking about buying a franchise? Don't make costly mistakes that could drain your time, money, and energy! Learn how to research, validate, and choose the perfect franchise. In this episode, Erik Van Horn breaks down the step-by-step process of buying a franchise the right way. He shares how to properly evaluate a brand, avoid red flags in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), and ask current franchisees the right validation questions. Erik also explains why brand recognition isn't everything, how to navigate franchise broker and consultant relationships, and what franchisors look for in potential owners. Discover the four stages of the franchise buying process, why franchisors evaluate you as much as you evaluate them, and smart franchise validation strategies to avoid being sold into the wrong franchise. Tune in and learn to buy with confidence! “Buying a franchise, probably for most people, is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make. You do it right, it can be life-changing; it was for me. You do it wrong, you rush it, and it could cost you everything. I've seen that as well." ~ Erik Van Horn In This Episode: - Why brand recognition isn’t always a good reason to buy - The four key stages of the franchise buying process - Understanding that franchisors also evaluate buyers - Choosing the right franchise industry for you - The role of franchise consultants, brokers, and FSOs - Following the franchisor's process - Researching and finding the best franchise opportunities - Reviewing the FDD (Franchise Disclosure Document) the right way - Asking smart franchise validation questions - Preparing for Discovery Day and making a decision Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 Download the 100+ Validation Questions To Ask Franchisees! - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/35221560

How Aaron Stokes Overcame $5.5M Debt & Built a $65M Business 02/04/2025

How Aaron Stokes Overcame $5.5M Debt & Built a $65M Business What does it take to go from rock bottom to running a multimillion-dollar business? In this powerful episode, Erik Van Horn sits down with Aaron Stokes, an entrepreneur who transformed his early struggles into a thriving empire. From dropping out of school in eighth grade to building a multi-location auto repair business and a highly successful coaching company, Aaron’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and business strategy. Aaron shares the hard lessons he learned in leadership, perseverance, and financial discipline. He opens up about how he overcame a staggering $5.5 million debt without resorting to bankruptcy, highlighting the mindset and strategies that kept his business afloat. Aaron also provides valuable insights into smart asset protection and lease negotiation tactics, equipping entrepreneurs with practical tools to safeguard their businesses and maximize profitability. Whether you're navigating financial challenges or looking to scale your business wisely, Aaron’s experience offers invaluable lessons for every entrepreneur. Listen now to learn how to avoid financial pitfalls and persevere through obstacles! “A lot of entrepreneurs don't understand that the pain is what has brought them so far because they learned something so deep." ~ Aaron Stokes In This Episode: - Aaron’s early struggles and entrepreneurial journey - Overcoming $5.5M debt without bankruptcy - How to move forward despite difficult times - Aaron's trait that helped him overcome obstacles - Accomplishing your vision after going through challenges - What's next for Aaron Stokes? - Aaron's words of wisdom for entrepreneurs Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday - 🌐 Back to Life: The Story of Shop Fix Academy and Aaron Stokes - Connect with Aaron Stokes: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/35143405

The Franchisee Exit Blueprint: Sell Smart, Maximize Profits, and Avoid Regrets With Daniel Castellini 01/28/2025

The Franchisee Exit Blueprint: Sell Smart, Maximize Profits, and Avoid Regrets With Daniel Castellini Are you thinking about selling your franchise? Whether it’s next year or years down the line, the key to a successful exit is preparing now. In this episode, Erik Van Horn and multi-brand franchisee Daniel Castellini reveal the insider secrets to maximizing your franchise’s value and attracting the right buyer. Erik and Dan dive into the challenges of preparing a franchise for sale, from cleaning up financials to building systems that ensure a smooth transition. Dan also shares insights from his experience as both a seller and a buyer, revealing what makes a business attractive to potential buyers and private equity firms. Learn actionable tips on preparing a business for sale, negotiating terms, and understanding what buyers are truly looking for. Whether you’re years away from selling or considering an exit soon, this episode offers a roadmap to maximizing your franchise’s value. Tune in and learn how to build a business that’s always ready to sell. “I think when you know what to expect, that's probably the most critical thing. As far as actually dealing with the negotiation, I think a lot of that is gonna be personality-based. Some of that is just gonna happen naturally." ~ Daniel Castellini In This Episode: - The first time Dan thought about selling - Knowing your buyer: private equity vs. individual buyers - Pros and cons of seller financing - Handling emotions during negotiations - The hardest part about preparing for the sale - Preparing for the sale and what happens to your staff - How to negotiate the sale - Why clean financials are essential for selling your franchise - Why every franchisee needs an exit strategy - What's next for Dan? Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - Connect with Daniel Castellini: 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/34994995

What Broke When Restore Hyper Wellness Grew Too Fast—and How They’re Course Correcting With Steven Welch 01/21/2025

What Broke When Restore Hyper Wellness Grew Too Fast—and How They’re Course Correcting With Steven Welch What breaks when a franchise scales too quickly, and how can it be fixed? In this eye-opening episode, Erik Van Horn talks with Steven (Steve) Welch, co-founder of Restore Hyper Wellness, about the hidden challenges of rapid franchise growth. Steve reveals the critical missteps as Restore expanded too fast, including leadership gaps, missing operational systems, and a lack of a clear sales process. He then shares how the company is actively course-correcting by rebuilding its infrastructure, strengthening its leadership team, and listening closely to franchisees through its Franchise Advisory Council (FAC). This episode is a must-listen for franchisors and franchisees who want to scale responsibly without sacrificing long-term success. “When I stepped into the role, I was hoping there would be a silver bullet. There’s no silver bullet. It was a lot of little things that had to change that added up to a lot." ~ Steven Welch In This Episode: - How Steve got into entrepreneurship - Pitfalls of growing too fast - Staying motivated after a big exit - Building a team with scale experience - Why franchisee due diligence matters - How to raise outside capital - Business valuation and convertible notes - How the FAC drives better decisions - Overhauling the sales process for growth - Restore's roadmap for consistent success - Standardizing systems to sustain growth - Advice for people who want to get into franchising Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - Connect with Steven Welch: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/34922715

Is Franchising Rigged? Uncovering the Industry’s Biggest Controversies 01/14/2025

Is Franchising Rigged? Uncovering the Industry’s Biggest Controversies Is the franchise industry as fair as it seems? From predatory contracts to overblown earnings claims, Erik Van Horn exposes the hidden truths franchisors don’t want you to know. If you're thinking about franchising, you need to hear this first! In this episode, Erik explores the most controversial aspects of franchising, which many avoid discussing. From predatory franchise contracts to the power imbalance between franchisors and franchisees, he uncovers the industry's hidden challenges and questions the norms that often go unchallenged. Drawing on his extensive experience and leveraging cutting-edge tools like AI, Erik challenges outdated systems and sparks important conversations about franchise transparency and accountability. This solo episode is a must-listen for aspiring franchisees, franchisors, and entrepreneurs looking to navigate the industry with open eyes and smarter strategies. If you're ready to uncover the truths behind the franchise world, tune in and discover how to protect your interests and make smarter franchise decisions. “If you’re in retail, like a retail-type brand, and the franchisees don't have management in place, you're probably going to be buying yourself a job." ~ Erik Van Horn In This Episode: - How Front Street Equity Partners works with brands - How to use AI tools effectively - Predatory franchise contracts and their risks - Should franchising face more regulation? - Misleading earnings claims exposed - Are you buying a business or a job? - Can franchisors silence criticism? - Hidden fees and costly renovations - Supplier markups draining profits - Market saturation and territory conflicts - Do franchisors profit from failure? - Brand control vs. local flexibility - How bad franchisees hurt brand image Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/34845825

Is Absentee Franchise Ownership a Myth? (The Brutal Truth Nobody Is Talking About) 01/07/2025

Is Absentee Franchise Ownership a Myth? (The Brutal Truth Nobody Is Talking About) What does absentee ownership actually mean in franchising? Is it really possible, or is it just another myth in the industry? In this replay, Erik talks to his business partners, Luke Jacobson and Terry Rackley from StretchLab, who share their raw and honest journey from hopeful semi-absentee franchisees to successful business partners. After experiencing the reality of burning through 6 managers in 8 months and watching their "10-hour work week" transform into something completely different, they reveal what actually makes absentee ownership possible. Their partnership story shows how the right structure can change everything, leading to profitability increases of up to 200% in some locations. The conversation pulls back the curtain on franchise success: the truth about support systems, the power of systematic organization, the critical role of employee retention, and most importantly - what it really takes to be a successful absentee owner in franchising. “We're not a franchisee that does something totally different than what the franchise is asking. We actually stay pretty close. We're not trying to reinvent the wheel, but on the people side, we try to go above and beyond. They'll take care of customers, which in turn will get us good results.” ~ Terry Rackley In This Episode: - Luke's background and how he got into franchising - Terry's background and how he met Luke and Erik - How Luke and Terry became business partners - The importance of speed in opening new locations - Erik's role in the partnership - Why leadership and organizational skills matter in business - Critical factors in running a successful business - Is absentee ownership a myth? - What comes to mind when you hear the term top franchisees? - What does a healthy franchisee-franchisor relationship look like? - Why is aggressive organization necessary when managing a business? - What makes partnerships a good thing? Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses 🌐 Franchise Equity Partners - Connect with Luke and Terry: 💼 LinkedIn (Luke) - 💼 LinkedIn (Terry) - 🌐 Website - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/34757750

The ROI of Personal Branding for Franchisors and Franchisees With Entrepreneur Magazine's Jason Feifer 12/31/2024

This Top Franchisee Built K9 Resorts’ Fastest-Growing Location | With Larkin Combs 12/24/2024

This Top Franchisee Built K9 Resorts’ Fastest-Growing Location | With Larkin Combs How does a former police officer and nurse become one of the top-performing franchisees in the luxury pet boarding industry? In this episode, Larkin, a franchise owner with K9 Resorts, shares his incredible journey from public service to running a thriving dog boarding and daycare business. Discover how his people skills, gained from years on the force, translated into exceptional customer service and operational excellence. Larkin owns K9 Resorts in Apex, NC and has another location in development in the state. After serving as a police officer for 25 years and working as a nurse, Larkin took his passion for community service and became a successful first-time entrepreneur. His K9 Resorts location opened in 2019, and he’s grown to be the highest-growing franchise location in the system. Larkin reveals why believing in the brand, trusting the process, and committing to hard work during those crucial first years make all the difference. He also shares how resilience through challenges like the pandemic helped him build a business that runs smoothly even when he steps away. If you're considering franchising, Larkin’s candid insights on due diligence, mindset, and staying focused will inspire and guide you. Tune in to hear how passion, persistence, and trust in the system can create franchise success! “If you believe in the brand, if you believe in what you're doing and the product, then you're going to follow those rules to the T. And doing so gives you more chance of success than failure because it's a proven brand with a proven track record of success." ~ Larkin Combs In This Episode: - Larkin’s path: from police officer to top franchisee - Using law enforcement skills to deliver excellent customer service - Why K9 Resorts stand out in luxury pet care - Why Larkin chose K9 Resorts over other franchises - The power of believing in the brand and following the system - Franchisee collaboration: sharing solutions and best practices - Larkin’s hands-on approach to daily operations - Overcoming early challenges, including the pandemic - Do your homework before buying a franchise Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 International Franchise Expo - Connect with Larkin Combs: 🌐 Website - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/34526920

How to Expand Your Franchise Portfolio Without Risking It All: Insights From Bobby Brennan 12/17/2024

How to Expand Your Franchise Portfolio Without Risking It All: Insights From Bobby Brennan Are you ready to expand your franchise portfolio? In this episode, Erik Van Horn and Bobby Brennan discuss the risks, challenges, and key considerations of diversifying into a second or third brand. With candid insights and actionable advice, they explore why self-awareness, due diligence, and understanding franchisor decision-making are crucial before taking the plunge. Discover the common pitfalls franchisees make when branching out, why culture and cooperation matter, and how to assess if a new brand aligns with your goals. Erik and Bobby also share personal stories of lessons learned, including the underestimated value of validation and the hidden insights founders can offer. Whether you’re a franchisee looking to diversify or an entrepreneur starting fresh, this episode is packed with essential tips to ensure your next move is the right one. Tune in now and learn to expand wisely–without risking it all! “Just because my franchise over here did it that way doesn't mean this franchise is gonna do it that way. And just know that there's gonna be some learnings. You may be right. Maybe you're gonna be wrong as well. But just know that when you join a franchise, you're joining a hundred percent." ~ Bobby Brennan In This Episode: - The worst thing you can do when buying a second brand - The “five C’s” for evaluating franchise fit - Adapting to new systems vs. applying old playbooks - How to handle the challenges of expansion - Validation: a must for joining new franchises - Self-awareness: the key to smart franchise expansion - Why founder decisions shape emerging brand success Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 How goGLOW Built a Franchise Employees Love and Customers Trust With Tori Johnston - 🌐 Attract Loyal Customers and Earn 5-Star Reviews With goGLOW’s Tori Johnston - Connect with Bobby Brennan: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/34410790

Franchise Depth vs. Diversification: Should You Grow One Brand Or Own Multiple? 12/10/2024

Franchise Depth vs. Diversification: Should You Grow One Brand Or Own Multiple? What’s the right move: diving deeper into your existing franchise or expanding into a new brand? In this episode, Erik Van Horn and Bobby Brennan tackle one of the hottest topics in franchising—multi-brand ownership. Drawing on years of hands-on experience, Bobby breaks down the challenges and opportunities of managing multiple franchises, from understanding employee models to building scalable operations. You’ll learn how to evaluate whether to stick with what you know or diversify into new markets, how different business models affect management styles, and why self-awareness is the ultimate key to franchise success. With real-life examples and candid insights, this conversation is a must-listen for any franchisee or franchisor considering their next move. Don’t miss this masterclass in strategic growth—tune in to level up your franchise game! “Until you have a manager in place and the business running, it's typically not a good idea to start two brands at once unless you have dedicated partners or people who can do it. Expanding into two brands is a good idea for a lot of folks, but maybe not at the same time." ~ Bobby Brennan In This Episode: - Why self-awareness is key in franchise decisions - Go deeper or diversify: what’s the right move? - The importance of employee compatibility - Service vs. brick-and-mortar: key challenges - Assessing franchisor strengths before diversifying - Avoiding overconfidence in franchise expansion - Why experienced franchisees love an emerging brand Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 The REAL Relationship Dynamics Between Franchisors and Franchisees - Connect with Bobby Brennan: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/34312925

How goGLOW Built a Franchise Employees Love and Customers Trust With Tori Johnston 12/03/2024

How goGLOW Built a Franchise Employees Love and Customers Trust With Tori Johnston What does it take to scale an emerging franchise while maintaining exceptional customer and employee experiences? In this episode, Tori Johnston, Brand President of goGLOW, dives into her journey of transitioning from CMO to leading one of the most innovative sunless tanning franchises. She shares how goGLOW’s unique employee model, top-tier customer experience, and operational efficiency are setting the standard in the beauty franchise space. Listen in as Tori reveals how goGLOW is rewriting the playbook for franchise growth, empowering employees, and delivering unmatched service. Discover the secrets behind goGLOW’s high Net Promoter Score, its flexible workforce model, and why it’s attracting passionate entrepreneurs looking for a scalable and innovative franchise concept. Ready to learn how to build a franchise that customers love, and employees thrive in? Hit play now and uncover the strategies behind goGLOW’s success! “Let the special sauce be how you treat employees–not necessarily rewriting the playbooks." ~ Tori Johnston In This Episode: - When and why founders bring in a brand president - How Tori discovered goGLOW and what attracted her to it - Front Street Equity Partners role in finding the best person for the job - Transitioning from CMO to Brand President: lessons learned - SoulCycle’s influence on Tori’s customer experience strategy - goGLOW’s employee model and its franchisee benefits - Why buyers should assess the employee model in franchises - How treating employees well drives franchise success Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - Connect with Tori Johnston: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/34190725

Attract Loyal Customers and Earn 5-Star Reviews With goGLOW’s Tori Johnston 11/26/2024

Attract Loyal Customers and Earn 5-Star Reviews With goGLOW’s Tori Johnston What’s the secret to building a brand that customers and employees adore while capturing the attention of industry insiders? In this episode, Tori Johnston, Brand President of goGLOW, shares her insights on the fast-growing beauty and skincare franchise that’s “outsmarting the sun.” From defining unique value propositions to spotting industry trends, Tori reveals how goGLOW innovates with eco-friendly solutions and a holistic approach to skincare. You’ll also hear how goGLOW’s visionary founder, Melanie Richards, built a best-in-class customer experience by saying “no” to shortcuts and prioritizing quality at every turn. Whether you’re a franchisor, franchisee, or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with lessons on brand loyalty, market innovation, and leadership. Get inspired by goGLOW’s journey and uncover how to make your brand glow! “At goGLOW, we like to say that we've outsmarted the sun. I think that unique value proposition is easy to understand." ~ Tori Johnston In This Episode: - Unique Value Proposition vs. Unique Selling Proposition: What’s the difference? - Why Tori joined GoGLOW and the booming sunless tanning industry - Key beauty and wellness trends fueling goGLOW’s growth - What makes goGLOW a fit for Tori's background and career aspirations? - Why goGLOW earns consistent five-star customer and employee reviews - Melanie Richards’ innovative approach to building goGLOW’s brand Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - Connect with Tori Johnston: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/34133046

From Hiring to Leading: Build Your Dream Virtual Team with Kasim Aslam 11/19/2024

From Hiring to Leading: Build Your Dream Virtual Team with Kasim Aslam How do you build a top-performing team while working fewer hours? In this episode, Erik Van Horn and guest Kasim Aslam, an expert in virtual assistant management, dive deep into the secrets of successful hiring, effective delegation, and leveraging offshore talent. Kasim shares a revolutionary framework for finding and managing virtual assistants (VAs) that can transform your business operations. From understanding the Pareto Principle to using job descriptions as a sales tool, Kasim reveals strategies to help business owners scale efficiently. Ready to scale your team and boost productivity? Today's episode provides transformative insights that will help shape the future of your business. “Things that you think only you are capable of, you're not the only person capable of that. Give them a macro-assed project, then watch them sink their teeth in–and keep your expectations reasonable. They're not gonna knock it out of the park the very first time on the very first project. That's why you give them a handful, and you start to see what they're really good at." ~ Kasim Aslam In This Episode: - How to increase your profit margin - Effective strategies for hiring the right people for the right job - Managing and motivating a remote team for maximum output - What is Pareto Talent? - The first step to finding the best candidates - Practical steps for delegating high-level tasks to offshore talent Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 Unlocking Hiring Success Secrets by Kasim Aslam - Connect with Kasim Aslam: 🌐 Website - and 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/33943217

How Responsible Franchising Drives Loyalty, Trust, and Profitability 11/12/2024

How Responsible Franchising Drives Loyalty, Trust, and Profitability What defines responsible franchising, and how can transparency strengthen franchise success? In this insightful episode, Erik Van Horn and guest Joe Mathews of Franchise Performance Group explore the critical dynamics between franchisors and franchisees, focusing on the value of ethical business practices and transparent operations. Joe discusses the role of private equity in franchising, the importance of full disclosure in franchise fees, and how responsible franchising can drive brand loyalty and profitability. Tune in to learn about setting clear expectations, the “social contract” between franchisors and franchisees, and how transparency impacts long-term success. If you want more information about responsible franchising, you can get The Ultimate Guide to Responsible Franchising by Joe Mathews - “Why does a franchisor exist? At FPG, what we espouse is that a franchisor exists for the sole reason of adding value to a franchisee's investment." ~ Joe Mathews In This Episode: - Why Joe wrote his new book - Private equity and high-value transactions in franchising - Key elements of responsible vs. irresponsible franchising - Transparency in franchise fees and the importance of value - Strategies for helping franchisees achieve profitability - Challenges in franchise validation - Supporting franchisee profitability through P&L reviews - Monitoring KPIs for franchise growth - Hiring practices for franchise success - Leadership and culture in franchising - Institutional knowledge vs. franchising expertise in leadership Resources: 🌐 Consult with Erik - 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - 🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses - 🌐 The Ultimate Guide to Responsible Franchising by Joe Mathews - Connect with Joe Mathews: 🌐 Website - 💼 LinkedIn - Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - 📷 Instagram - 👍 Facebook - 💼 LinkedIn - /episode/index/show/franchisesecrets/id/33877027

Franchise Secrets Podcast

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