FranchiseU!

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser interviews Kevin and Kayla Curtis about their journey from athletics, coaching, and education into multi-unit franchise ownership with seven Orangetheory Fitness studios across the Phoenix, Arizona metro area. Kevin, a former NFL player and longtime collegiate football coach, and Kayla, a former Fresno State basketball player, educator, and coach, discuss how they stepped away from the demanding world of college athletics to build a business focused on family, leadership, health, and long-term impact.

The conversation explores why franchising appealed to them as entrepreneurs, particularly the structure, brand recognition, marketing support, and operational systems provided by Orangetheory Fitness. Kevin and Kayla explain the unique Orangetheory workout experience, including coach-led group fitness classes, heart-rate based performance tracking, and scalable workouts designed for all fitness levels.

Listeners will also hear valuable insights into multi-unit franchise leadership, team communication, accountability, and creating a people-first culture across seven locations in the competitive Phoenix fitness market. The Curtises discuss balancing entrepreneurship with family life, building businesses that positively impact local communities, and teaching their children the value of leadership, ownership, and service.

Whether you are interested in franchising, fitness entrepreneurship, multi-unit operations, leadership development, or building a mission-driven business, this episode offers practical lessons from two operators who have successfully transitioned from sports leadership into franchise ownership.

Key topics include:

• Multi-unit franchise ownership

• Fitness franchising and entrepreneurship

• Leadership and team culture

• Orangetheory Fitness business operations

• Transitioning from athletics into business

• Family entrepreneurship

• Phoenix, Arizona franchise growth

• Community impact through fitness

• Coach-led fitness models

• Franchise systems and scalability

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Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn.

This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

Dr. Kathy Gosser interviews Robin Gagnon, Co-Founder and CEO of We Sell Restaurants, on what drives successful franchise restaurant sales and the trends shaping the resale market.

Robin shares her path from broadcasting to entrepreneurship, later earning her MBA and building a national restaurant brokerage with her husband, Eric. Under her leadership, the company has expanded nationwide and earned recognition on the INC 5000 and Franchise Business Review rankings.

They discuss how niche focus, proprietary technology, and AI tools differentiate their model, and why franchise resales appeal to buyers seeking proven systems and faster entry. Robin also outlines common exit mistakes emphasizing the importance of planning 2–4 years in advance. The conversation includes the impact of retiring owners on the market.

Robin also reflects on her leadership and industry involvement through the International Franchise Association. Her advice to emerging leaders is direct: raise your hand earlier and take action before you feel fully ready.

Episode Highlights:

·     Franchise restaurant resales attract buyers seeking proven systems, existing revenue, and faster entry compared to starting from scratch

·     Specialized focus, proprietary data, and technology (including AI and the BOS platform) create a competitive advantage in restaurant brokerage

·     Many owners delay exit planning, reducing value and limiting options at the time of sale

·     Preparing 2–4 years in advance leads to stronger outcomes and smoother transactions

·     Industry shifts, including a wave of retiring owners, are increasing resale opportunities while reinforcing the need for proactive leadership and decision-making

Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows.

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 Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping franchising by turning data into real-time insights that improve performance and strengthen relationships. In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser speaks with Mike Skitzki, COO of Goldfish Swim School, and Gary Liskovich, CEO of Harmonize, about how AI is transforming franchise coaching.

They discuss how systems are moving beyond dashboards to analyze both structured data and call notes, allowing franchise business coaches to focus less on spreadsheets and more on supporting franchisees. The conversation highlights how AI uncovers patterns across locations, improves conversion and retention, and enhances collaboration without replacing the human element central to franchising.

Mike Skitzki is a franchise operator known for scaling multi-unit systems through disciplined execution and strong unit economics. As COO, he oversees operations, technology, and performance across 200+ locations and more than 200,000 weekly lessons. His background includes leadership roles with Franworth, TITLE Boxing Club, and Belfor Franchise Group.

Gary Liskovich, an engineering graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, previously worked at Deloitte and Evolution IQ, where he built AI-driven solutions. He co-founded Harmonize to help franchise systems unlock unstructured data, reduce administrative burden, and enable more effective, human-centered decision-making.

Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows.

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 Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser sits down with Dr. Arif Nazir, a nationally recognized geriatrician and physician executive, as he prepares to open Louisville’s first Paris Baguette. His career has focused on improving quality of life for older adults through person-centered care models that strengthen teams, reduce hospitalizations, and preserve dignity and independence.

Dr. Nazir shares why franchising provided the structure and support he needed to expand his impact beyond healthcare, and how his experience in geriatrics (centered on trust, listening, and community) translates directly into hospitality and business leadership.

The conversation explores:

• Why franchising (not independent ownership) was the right path 
• How customer trust applies across healthcare and food service 
• What drew him to the Paris Baguette concept and global brand 
• How he evaluated Louisville’s market demand through direct community input 
• The operational and emotional realities of launching a new venture 
• His approach to building a people-first culture for employees and customers 

Believing innovation happens at the intersection of disciplines, Dr. Nazir is applying his healthcare lens to create more than a bakery. His vision is a culturally vibrant gathering space where exceptional food, human connection, and meaningful employment create lasting value for the community.

With plans for multiple locations, this episode offers a detailed look at the mindset, preparation, and purpose behind a transition into franchise ownership.

Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows.

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 Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser speaks with Josh Patrick, Senior Vice President of Franchise Development at KidStrong, the youth fitness brand recently ranked #1 in youth fitness franchising after a year of record attendance and franchise growth.

Josh shares how a chance meeting at Starbucks while studying for the CPA exam launched his career in franchising, beginning with Altitude Trampoline Park and later leading to roles in franchise development and real estate strategy before joining KidStrong in 2022.

The conversation explores how KidStrong is scaling nationally through disciplined franchise development, strong unit economics, and a mission centered on helping kids “win at life” through brain, character, and physical development. With 177 locations open, 40 added last year, and 50+ expected this year, Josh explains how the brand focuses on the right franchise partners, the right locations, and strong operational systems to drive sustainable growth.

Key Highlights Include:

• Josh Patrick’s unexpected path from accounting into franchise development
• Lessons learned scaling early franchise brands like Altitude Trampoline Park
• How KidStrong builds confidence in kids through brain, character, and physical training
• Why grit is a key trait KidStrong looks for in franchise partners
• The importance of strong coaches and engaging class environments
• How disciplined franchise development drives sustainable growth
• What KidStrong learned expanding into dense urban markets like Manhattan
• Why pairing the right franchisee, location, and investment structure matters most in franchising

Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows.

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 Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, join your host, Dr. Kathy Gosser, as she interviews Richie Huffman, founder and CEO of Celebree School, about the deliberate path from a single preschool in 1994 to a nationally expanding franchise system. After building the company to 26 corporate locations, Richie began franchising in 2019, formalizing the systems, standards, and culture that had fueled decades of steady growth. Today, with new franchise agreements, expansion into additional states, and recognition on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500, Celebree’s growth reflects both demand and disciplined execution.

Central to that expansion is a commitment to consistency. Celebree supports franchisees through clearly defined owner competencies, strengthened operating standards, required first-year accounting guidance, and a real estate fund designed to acquire and lease properties to operators. These structures reduce risk while preserving brand integrity.

Richie’s leadership philosophy centers on “growing people big and small.” That includes mapped career paths for educators, hiring based on nine core competencies, rigorous market analysis, and responsiveness to trends such as universal pre-K funding. Through the Huffman Family Foundation and partnerships with organizations like Ronald McDonald House and children’s hospitals, Celebree extends its mission beyond the classroom. As President and CEO, Richie remains closely engaged with franchisees, shaping a culture defined by accountability, service, and long-term vision.

Key Highlights Include:

• Mission-Driven Growth
• From First School to Rebrand
• Roles of Founders While Scaling
• Student, Teacher, Parent Development
• Franchisee Selection and Culture
• Franchise Real Estate Fund
• Franchise Legacy

Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows.

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 Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, join your host, Dr. Kathy Gosser, for a candid conversation with Jon Utterback, an Indiana educator, coach, and multi-brand franchise owner who has built a second career in entrepreneurship while spending more than 30 years teaching high school social studies and coaching football, wrestling, and golf. Based in Plainfield, Jon co-owns and operates Mosquito Joe, The Brothers That Just Do Gutters, and a Christmas lighting business, translating the leadership lessons of the classroom and the field into scalable service companies.

In this episode, Jon reflects on his transition from public school teacher to franchise operator, the realities of growing multiple brands at once, and the discipline required to build strong teams and sustain customer loyalty. He discusses the critical role of franchisor support, the need to adapt to shifting market conditions, and the practical systems that make service businesses succeed. A devoted husband and father of two elite-level volleyball players, Jon brings a perspective grounded in resilience, accountability, and long-term growth. The result is an honest, experience driven look at what it takes to lead in education, athletics, and franchising.

Key Highlights Include:

·     Jon's Journey into Franchising

·     Expanding to Multiple Brands

·     Leadership and Team Building

·     Business Synergies

·     Advice for Aspiring Franchisees

Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows.

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 Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Your host, Dr. Kathy Gosser, sits down with Emily Bergman, a multi-unit franchisee, and area director with Arthur Murray Dance Studios. Emily shares her inspiring journey from starting as a dance instructor at the age of 19 to opening her first studio at 24. She discusses her path to success, which includes breaking sales records, expanding to multiple locations across Central Florida, and recently being appointed area director. Emily provides insights into the unique challenges of running multiple studios, maintaining a motivated team, and the support system within the Arthur Murray franchise. She emphasizes the role of intentionality in building a strong internal culture and the significance of open communication and teamwork.

Key Highlights Include:

• Introduction to Arthur Murray Dance Studios
• Meet Emily Bergman: A Journey of Entrepreneurship
• Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Opportunities
• The Business Side of Dance
• Expanding the Franchise: Multi-Unit Growth
• Advice for Aspiring Franchisees

Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows.

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 Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Your host, Dr. Kathy Gosser, sits down with Carriann Sillman, in house counsel for the Coldwell Banker Real Estate franchise system and Vice President of Legal at Anywhere Real Estate, Inc.. Carriann shares her inspiring, non-traditional journey to legal leadership, balancing family, work, and night school. She discusses the dynamic role of legal strategy in a massive franchise system, emphasizing the importance of judgment, trust, and teamwork. Carriann also delves into the complexities and challenges franchisors face today, the critical balance between supporting franchisees and protecting the brand, and offers valuable advice for aspiring legal leaders and women pursuing non-traditional career paths.

Key Highlights Include:

• Carriann Sillman's Unconventional Path to Law
• Career Growth and Legal Leadership
• Day-to-Day Work as Chief Legal Officer
• Legal Complexities in Franchising
• Advice for Aspiring Franchise Lawyers

Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows.

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 Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Your host, Dr. Kathy Gosser, interviews Ricky Richardson, CEO of Eggs Up Grill, one of the fastest-growing breakfast, brunch, and lunch franchises in the country. Ricky shares his extensive experience in the restaurant industry, including his significant tenure with TGI Fridays, where he served as US President and Global Chief Operating Officer. He discusses his leadership philosophy, the importance of culture and guest experience, and the challenges and rewards of scaling a franchise. Ricky also delves into the unique aspects of Eggs Up Grill, their community-centered culture, and the robust support system they provide to franchisees, many of whom are new to the restaurant business. The conversation highlights Ricky's passion for the industry and his commitment to making each guest experience exceptional.

Key Highlights Include:

·     Introduction to Scaling a Breakfast Brand

·     Meet Ricky Richardson: Career Highlights

·     Ricky’s Key Leadership Experiences

·     Lessons from TGI Fridays

·     The Breakfast and Brunch Market

·     Recognition and Culture at Eggs Up Grill

·     Future Vision and Personal Reflections

Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows.

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 Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.