On Brand Slightly Off Topic

Summary

In this episode, Jonathan Hill sits down with Dana Edwards Manatos, Founder & CEO of Milkshake Factory, to dive into the incredible 110-year legacy of her family business and how she’s transformed it into a modern-day franchise success story. Dana shares the inspiring journey from her great-grandparents’ corner candy shop in Pittsburgh to the national expansion of Milkshake Factory today. She opens up about growing up in the chocolate factory, the lessons learned along the way, and how family recipes continue to power the brand’s identity.

The conversation covers everything from Milkshake Factory’s cult-like following to its big break with Costco, the challenges of scaling a hospitality-driven brand, and how franchising is shaping its next chapter. Dana also talks about her personal “why,” the importance of community, and her vision for building generational legacy through chocolate, ice cream, and unforgettable experiences.

Keywords

Milkshake Factory, Dana Edwards Manatos, franchising, family business, chocolate, ice cream, legacy brand, Pittsburgh, franchise growth, Costco, hospitality, community, entrepreneurship, generational wealth, franchising success, QSR, brand expansion, dessert franchise, franchising stories, food and beverage, retail growth, women in franchising, family legacy, scaling a brand, franchise ownership, customer experience, franchise development, innovation, retail franchising, family recipes, community-driven brand

In this episode, Jonathan Hill sits down with Catherine Monson, CEO of Propelled Brands, to discuss her remarkable journey in franchising and leadership. Catherine shares her personal story of resilience, from a challenging childhood to becoming one of the most respected executives in the franchise industry. She reflects on her early experiences in family business, the lessons learned from building Sir Speedy into a national powerhouse, and her leadership through the Great Recession as CEO of FASTSIGNS.

Catherine also dives into the mission of Propelled Brands, which includes FASTSIGNS®, NerdsToGo®, MY SALON Suite®, and Salon Plaza®, and explains how she continues to drive growth while supporting franchisees. She offers insights into effective franchisor–franchisee relationships, the importance of industry advocacy, and what it means to choose to live as a “victor” rather than a victim.

Listeners will come away inspired by Catherine’s leadership philosophy, her passion for franchising, and her commitment to helping others succeed.

Keywords

Catherine Monson, Propelled Brands, FASTSIGNS, NerdsToGo, MY SALON Suite, franchise leadership, franchising, IFA, advocacy, women in franchising, business growth, entrepreneurship, resilience, leadership podcast, franchising podcast

In this episode, Julie Cartwright, President of Pvolve, shares her journey from shaping some of the fitness industry’s most iconic at-home workout programs to leading one of today’s fastest-growing, female-led fitness brands. Julie discusses the evolution of Pvolve, its unique approach to functional fitness, and how partnerships like the one with Jennifer Aniston have propelled the brand forward. She dives into the challenges of rapid growth, the trends shaping the wellness industry, and her leadership philosophy that blends innovation with authenticity. Julie also offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and franchise owners while reflecting on the lessons that have fueled her success. 

In this episode, we’re joined by former NFL safety VernonScott and Steven Sgroi, Founder & CEO of Franthlete, toexplore what life looks like after professional sports—and how franchisingoffers a powerful path forward. Vernon shares his journey from Texas highschool football to the NFL and now, his transition into entrepreneurship withhis first business: a Hydralive Therapy franchise. Together with Steven,they walk us through the process of finding the right brand, identifyinglong-term goals, and building a business rooted in legacy. Whether you’re anathlete, entrepreneur, or just curious about new beginnings, this episode isfull of grit, heart, and practical insight.

In this episode, we sit down with Piersten Gaines, Founderand CEO of Pressed Roots, the first national luxury blowout bar createdspecifically for highly textured hair. Piersten shares how her personalexperiences led to the launch of a brand that’s redefining inclusivity in thebeauty industry. From early pop-up salons to opening the flagship Pressed Rootslocation just days before the pandemic shutdown, Piersten walks us through thechallenges, lessons, and victories that shaped her journey. We explore what itmeans to build a purpose-driven brand, how she’s preparing to franchise in2025, and the powerful connection between beauty, identity, and community.

Summary

In this episode, Shane Evans, co-founder and CEO of HeightsWellness Retreat, shares her journey into the wellness industry, the evolutionof wellness perspectives, and the challenges faced in the early days of MassageHeights. She discusses the keys to long-term franchise success, innovations intouchless therapies, and the future of self-care and wellness. Shane alsohighlights the impact of the International Franchise Association (IFA) on herleadership style and emphasizes the importance of balance and preventingburnout in a demanding industry. Her passion for helping others and commitmentto wellness shines through as she shares insights on leadership and communityengagement.

Keywords

wellness, franchising, Massage Heights, Heights WellnessRetreat, self-care, touchless therapies, franchise success, mental health,holistic health, innovation

Chapters

00:00 The Journey into Wellness Entrepreneurship

02:02 The Evolution of Wellness and Massage Therapy

11:58 The Shift in Wellness Perspectives

21:42 Building a Sustainable Franchise Model

28:32 Supporting Franchisee Success

30:28 Embracing Technology in Wellness

33:27 The Future of Self-Care and Wellness

36:58 The Role of the IFA

41:11 Leadership Lessons from the Franchise Community

47:03 Finding Balance and Preventing Burnout

53:22 Navigating Challenges in Franchising and Wellness

Summary

In this episode, Tim Vogel, CEO of Scent Hound, shares hisjourney from starting a mobile dog grooming business to creating a franchisethat focuses on dog wellness. He discusses the challenges of scaling abusiness, the importance of validation in franchising, and the need for astrong culture to empower teams. Tim emphasizes the significance of caring fordogs beyond just grooming, highlighting the health benefits of regularmaintenance. He also offers valuable advice for emerging franchise brands andreflects on the misconceptions surrounding franchising and pet care.

Chapters

00:00 The Birth of Scent Hound

05:59 Innovations in Pet Wellness

11:52 Franchising: Challenges and Strategies

18:00 Validation and Franchisee Relationships

24:04 Misconceptions in Franchising and Pet Care

26:35 Working On vs. In the Business

28:00 Empowering Teams Through Culture

29:46 The Future of AI in Pet Care

32:25 Learning from Other Leaders

35:40 The Humanization of Pets

36:06 Understanding Our Pets

38:45 The Importance of Dog Care

42:56 Advice for the Younger Self

Summary

In this episode, we sit down with Rob Price, President of Youth Enrichment Brands(YEB), to explore his journey through some of the biggest names in retail andfranchising — from CVS and Edible Arrangements to School of Rock and now YEB.Rob shares lessons learned across his dynamic career, his philosophy onpurpose-driven leadership, and how his love for music continues to influencehis work and life. We dive into brand evolution, youth empowerment, andbuilding lasting impact through franchising. Whether you're a leader,entrepreneur, or simply curious about what makes a great brand tick, thisepisode is full of insight and inspiration.

Chapters

12:06Balancing Growth and Mission at School of Rock

15:40Pivotal Moments

21:00Excitement for Youth Enrichment Brands

30:06Innovative Initiatives and Programs

33:58Measuring Success and Impact

29:25Strategic Acquisitions and Brand Fit

32:12The Role of Technology in Franchising

35:13Personal Reflections and Career Journey

40:15Rapid Fire Questions

Summary

In this episode, Red Boswell, President of the InternationalFranchise Professionals Group (IFPG), takes us inside the world of franchisedevelopment and consulting. With decades of experience as an entrepreneur,franchisor, and industry leader, Red shares how IFPG connects franchisors,franchisees, and consultants to drive business success. From the strategiesbehind franchise expansion to the role of franchise brokers in closing deals,Red offers invaluable insights into what makes a franchise thrive. He alsodiscusses the importance of networking, mentorship, and adapting to an evolvingindustry.

Chapters

00:00 Red Boswell's Career Journey

06:30 Red Talks About the First Franchise He Founded

08:07 Future Plans for IFPG

19:34 Franchises are Actually Small Businesses

20:20 How Red’s Children are Following in His Footsteps

24:09 Why IFPG?

31:04 Surprising Trends

40:45 Red’s Iconic Red Shoes

42:45 Social Media

44:37 Red’s Coffee Routine

47:37 Best Advice Red’s Ever Received

54:00 What Red Would Do Outside Franchising

56:02 Does Red Get Mad?

57:00 Nicknames

58:53 Describing Red in One Word

1:01:00 Closing

Summary

In this episode, Van Ingram, Vice President of Franchise

Discover the innovative Have Analysis Matrix, learn

Chapters

00:00 Van Ingram's Career Journey

04:41 Franchise Development Strategies

10:04 The Have Analysis Matrix

14:44 Challenges for Legacy Brands

20:01 Franchisee Success Stories

24:57 Innovations in Restaurant Footprints

25:31 Emerging Trends in the Restaurant Industry

33:25 The Importance of Customer Recognition

35:39 Career Reflections and Achievements

38:21 Advice for the Next Generation

39:35 Menu Favorites and Unique Offerings

50:40 Sales Secrets and Transparency

52:03 Innovations in Fast Food Operations