🎙️ Ep. 7: Inside the Chick-fil-A Model — Faith, Stewardship, and Service

In this episode of WealthWise with SageSpring, hosts Jordan McFarland and Brian Hart sit down with Aaron Vann, a Chick-fil-A owner-operator, to explore how leadership, stewardship, and faith create lasting success beyond profits.

Aaron shares his journey from pharmaceutical sales to running one of the most respected restaurant brands in America — offering lessons on building culture, hiring for heart, and leading with purpose.

From the challenges of becoming an operator to the joy of developing people, Aaron’s story is a blueprint for entrepreneurs who believe values and excellence can coexist. Whether you lead a team, manage a business, or aspire to start your own, this conversation will remind you that true wealth is built through service and stewardship.

Chapters

00:00 — Welcome and Introduction to Aaron Vann
02:51 — Chick-fil-A Orders and Traditions
05:33 — Hiring for Heart: The Chick-fil-A Approach
08:24 — Aaron’s Journey: From Pharmaceuticals to Chick-fil-A
11:12 — The Transition to Ownership: A Three-Year Journey
13:54 — Active Management: The Chick-fil-A Model
16:28 — Challenges of Becoming a Chick-fil-A Operator
19:17 — Building a High-Performing Team
22:08 — Creating a Culture of Celebration
24:48 — Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
27:41 — Integrating Faith into Business
30:17 — The Importance of Stewardship and Values
33:12 — Customer Experience and Satisfaction
35:55 — Team Member Growth and Development
38:22 — The Chick-fil-A Brand: Admiration and Values
41:23 — Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

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