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 Taco
• Piology Pizza and Franchise Operations
• Differences Between Corporate and Franchise Sides
• Evaluating Franchise Opportunities and Client Profiles
• Exploring Franchise Opportunities
• Negotiating Franchise Terms
• Success Stories in Franchising

Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:

Website: FranchiseU!

Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast

Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast

Twitter: @franchiseupod

TikTok: @franchiseupod

Reach 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_podcast

Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast

Twitter: @franchiseupod

TikTok: @franchiseupod

Reach 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 Geofencing

2. Benefits of Geofencing include:

• Increased Foot Traffic
• Targeted Marketing
• Enhanced Customer Engagement

3. How to embrace Geofencing

4. Learn more at the Cullari and Wardell Ad Agency Website

Ernesto 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_podcast

Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast

Twitter: @franchiseupod

TikTok: @franchiseupod

Reach 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 Topic

00:00 Introduction and Co-Host Welcome

00:20 Meet the Shelton Family: Multi-Generational KFC Franchisees

01:27 Bonnie's Story: The Early Days of Bacon Enterprises

04:10 A Family Business: Challenges and Triumphs

07:14 Marcus's Journey: From Childhood Memories to Business Leader

12:10 The Next Generation: Roles of the Shelton Daughters

15:27 Growth and Leadership: Expanding the Franchise

18:25 Working Together: Family Dynamics in Business

22:46 Balancing Family and Business

23:12 Leadership and Conflict Resolution

27:35 Values and Principles in Family Business

28:34 Decision to Sell the Business

31:20 Navigating the Sale Process

37:36 Celebrating and Reflecting on Success

40:03 Advice for Family Businesses

42:58 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.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser has a speaks with Erika Wasser,

co-founder and CEO of Prospr, a groundbreaking app designed to streamline communication, shift management, and culture building in multi-unit operations. They delve into the challenges of effective communication within franchises, especially with hourly team members. Wasser shares her journey from TV hosting to entrepreneurial ventures, highlighting the creation of Prospr. The discussion covers the app's features, such as scheduling, accountability measures, and an engaging bulletin system, emphasizing its significant ROI and impact on employee retention. Wasser also touches on the importance of adapting communication methods to modern needs and her vision for the future of Prospr.

Time Topic

00:00 Introduction and Episode Teaser

01:23 Meet Erica Wasser: Entrepreneurial Journey

06:00 The Birth of Prosper at Work

07:16 How Prosper at Work Enhances Communication

10:33 Innovative Features of Prosper at Work

12:42 Building a Positive Work Culture

15:47 Adapting to Modern Learning Styles

16:44 Challenges in Workforce Engagement

17:49 Customizing Prosper for Brands

18:22 Franchisor vs Franchisee Engagement

19:02 Addressing Franchisee Pain Points

22:04 The Importance of Communication and Culture

27:37 Future Innovations for Prosper

28:58 Reflections and Closing Thoughts

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser speaks with Michael Seaman,

co-founder and CEO of Swipesum, a comprehensive payment processing and merchant services consultancy delivering innovative auditing solutions to businesses nationwide. Seaman founded Swipesum in 2016 with his brother, Stephen, to serve as Chief Payments Officer for businesses nationwide, combining industry knowledge, AI and proprietary software to create a transparent payments strategy that optimizes payment processing fees. The company has been recognized by the Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest-growing privately held companies in the U.S. and by Entrepreneur as a 2024 Top Franchise Supplier. Before starting Swipesum, Seaman worked at Worldpay after graduating from Samford University where he earned a place in their Athletics Hall of Fame as a pole vaulter.

In the episode Seaman shares his early entrepreneurial experiences, including an Etsy business and niche products, and how his upbringing influenced his career. Seaman explains Swipesum's unique approach in helping businesses, particularly franchises, with merchant services and payment solutions. He delves into the company's use of AI to optimize services, their transparent pricing structures, and how they've earned top franchise supplier ratings. He also highlights the importance of human touch in customer service despite AI advancements. Seaman discusses his journey from college entrepreneur to heading a technology company specializing in payment processing solutions. The episode concludes with a look at the future of Swipesum and reflections on Michael’s professional journey and insights into the franchise industry.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser speaks with

Will Cantrell, a seasoned employment and franchise attorney, regarding the intricacies of franchise law.

Cantrell, Founding Partner of Cantrell Schuette, P.A. is a nationally recognized leading attorney in handling complex disputes, litigation, and trials. Apart from his background in general commercial litigation, he specializes the areas of employment law, partnership and shareholder law, and franchisee/dealership law.

Cantrell is a graduate of FSU College of Law (J.D., magna cum laude, 2008), where he was selected for the Order of the Coif, graduating in the top five percent of his law class. He also received a master’s degree in international economics from FSU (M.A., cum laude, 2005)

After law school, Cantrell obtained a coveted judicial clerkship with the Honorable Hugh Lawson, United States District Court Judge for the Middle District of Georgia.

Gosser and Cantrell discuss due diligence for potential franchisees, emphasizing the importance of consulting existing franchisees and being cautious of sales pitches. He highlights key elements of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) to review, including financial disclosures and the experience of those running the franchise. Additionally, Cantrell touches on the implications of joint employer rule changes by the NLRB and how proposed alterations could affect the franchise model. He advises new franchisees on negotiating franchise agreements and underscores the need for legal support when entering a franchise agreement. Cantrell also reflects on his career, expressing pride in building a successful law firm specializing in employment and franchise law.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser and Co-Host with Dr. Isabel Botero speaks with Aaron Engler, President of Border Foods, a large family-owned Taco Bell franchisee, and Mollie Sommer, Community Engagement and Outreach Specialist. Engler and Sommer share their backgrounds, professional journeys, and the roles they have undertaken in the family business which operates over 250 Taco Bell restaurants with 7,000 employees. Sommer details her transition from various positions in Chicago to a year-long stint at a Taco Bell restaurant, eventually moving into community engagement. Engler discusses his expansive journey from failing out of college twice to taking on multiple roles within Border Foods to eventually leading it for nearly 20 years. They explore the entrepreneurial spirit, governance, and family dynamics that define Border Foods. The discussion highlights key values like family, teamwork, and accountability, and emphasizes the importance of communication in family businesses. They also discuss initiatives such as a unique two-story drive-thru Taco Bell named 'Defy' and their generous community outreach efforts.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser speaks with Kenny Rose the Founder and CEO of FranShares. After Rose shares his experience on the TV game show, The Price Is Right, Gosser and Rose discuss how franchises represent amazing investment opportunities and uniquely benefit investors, operators, and local communities.

FranShares is an innovative investment platform democratizing access to franchise ownership. With over a decade of experience in finance and franchising, Rose has worked with over 600 franchise brands across 100+ industries. As a Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) with the International Franchise Association (IFA), Rose is recognized for his expertise in franchise evaluation and deploying capital to maximize returns and operational efficiency.

Rose began his career at Merrill Lynch after earning a degree in Financial Services from San Diego State University. While there, he acquired his FINRA Series 7 and Series 66 licenses and specialized in wealth management for high-net-worth individuals. His passion for entrepreneurship led him to join the world’s largest franchise brokerage, where he guided aspiring franchise owners through the evaluation and acquisition process. He later founded Semfia, a brokerage focused on income-generating, manager-run franchises.

Under Rose’s leadership, FranShares bridges the gap between investors and the franchise economy, fostering wealth creation through fractional franchise investments. His insights on franchising have been featured in Forbes, Business Insider, ABC, The Hustle, American Express, and the Amazon-featured book, “More Than Just French Fries.” His work has reached over 300 million people worldwide.