DESCRIPTION:

In this episode of the Franchise Hot Seat, host John Hayes interviews Fred Fry, Vice 

President of Franchise Development for 16 Handles. Fred shares his career journey 

from banking and finance to the franchise industry, highlighting how he discovered 

franchising through a friend at church after relocating to Texas. He previously 

worked with HTO and Shipley Donuts, where he played key roles in their significant 

growth. The episode dives into the appeal of franchising, the opportunities for 

financial and personal growth it offers, and the challenges and benefits of different 

franchise concepts. Fred emphasizes the importance of community involvement, 

systems, and strong management in ensuring franchisee success. The conversation 

also touches on financing options for franchisees, including SBA loans. Fred 

discusses the strategic decisions that new leadership at 16 Handles has made, 

including community engagement, technology stack improvements, and leveraging 

social media, to ensure the brand's growth and success.

- With Fred Frey

TIMESTAMPS (Use ChatGPT on Transcript):

00:00 Intro

00:28 How did Fred start franchising?

01:57 What drove transition to franchising?

03:32 Why franchise in Texas? Costs?

05:29 Biggest franchise development challenges/rewards?

07:31 How to finance franchise investments?

10:20 Best ownership style for engagement?

16:48 Why is franchisor support crucial?

21:04 What killed frozen yogurt's boom?

30:23 Why are franchise systems important?

LINKS:

WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

DESCRIPTION: 

The podcast guest is Aaron Rose, a graduate of Palm Beach Atlantic University and the founder of Fran Partners, a recruitment agency specializing in franchisees. Rose discusses his journey and how his education in franchising prepared him for roles in different franchise companies before he established his own. He identifies a gap in the market for hiring support focused on franchises, particularly for mid-level roles, and outlines the services provided by Fran Partners. Rose talks about the importance of networking and soft skills for college graduates entering the workforce, the specific hiring challenges faced by franchisees, and Fran Partners' development of a subscription model for continuous recruitment support. Furthermore, Rose points out the changing job expectations of Generation Z, who seek work with social value and a positive culture. He provides advice for job seekers and franchise owners on effective hiring strategies. 

- With Aaron Rose 

TIMESTAMPS (Use ChatGPT on Transcript): 

00:00 Intro 

00:15 Aaron's Educational Background and Early Career 

00:58 The Importance of Franchise Education 

01:52 Founding Fran Partners 

02:19 Specializing in Franchisee Recruitment 

02:58 Challenges and Solutions in Franchise Recruitment 

04:40 Subscription Model for Hiring 

05:07 Advice for College Graduates 

05:45 The Role of Connections in Career Success 

14:27 The Importance of Soft Skills 

20:40 Challenges in Franchise Hiring 

30:56 The Value of Networking 

33:22 Courage and Validation in Entrepreneurship 

LINKS: 

WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/ 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise 

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes, the host of Franchise Hot Seat, interviews Bill Edwards, a specialist in international franchise development. Edwards discusses the current international franchising environment, highlighting the influence of political sensitivities and tariffs. He underscores the necessity for franchises to be profitable domestically before contemplating overseas expansion, warning that international market entry requires substantial time, financial resources, and senior management commitment. Edwards details the process of identifying and qualifying licensees in foreign countries, the importance of robust training and support systems, and the various associated costs. He also emphasizes the need to select the right markets and comprehend each country's specific franchise laws and cultural nuances. Edwards identifies Saudi Arabia, Spain, and Japan as promising markets and stresses the importance of having an English-speaking team. He concludes that successful international franchising necessitates long-term commitment and proactive planning.

- With Bill Edwards

TIMESTAMPS (Use ChatGPT on Transcript):
00:00 – Intro
00:14 – How Franchising Is Doing Around the World
00:59 – Problems and Changes in Different Countries
03:42 – Are You Ready to Go Global?
05:16 – What to Think About Before Going Global
10:07 – Picking the Right Countries
10:24 – Money and Shipping Plans
16:51 – Finding People to Run Your Brand in Other Countries
20:17 – Big Problems When Going International
20:56 – Why You Need Passion and a Good Team
21:31 – What Master Franchisees Do
22:24 – Growing with Multiple Locations
23:19 – How Often People Succeed or Struggle
29:34 – Planning Ahead vs. Playing Catch-Up
31:34 – Franchising in Saudi Arabia
34:04 – Big Tips for Growing Internationally
37:28 – Conclusion


LINKS:

WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

DESCRIPTION:
John Hayes interviews Jimi Gibson on effective messaging strategies for franchisees and franchisors. Gibson highlights the power of storytelling, curiosity, and emotional engagement in capturing audience attention and enhancing communication. He uses a magic trick to demonstrate the release of trust, curiosity, and satisfaction chemicals in the brain, drawing parallels to how marketing messages should work. The conversation also covers the significance of targeted advertising, especially on social media, and ways to make content engaging and visible. Gibson suggests using specific, human-centered stories and clear, curiosity-driven messaging. He underscores the importance of aligning content with audience needs and the advantages of direct communication via email or text. Gibson also provides resources for further learning on effective messaging.

- With Jimi Gibson.

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Intro
00:39 The Magic of Capturing Attention
04:57 Creating Emotional Connections
07:38 Effective Social Media Strategies
12:38 Understanding Audience Behavior
21:42 Advanced Targeting Techniques
24:52 Final Thoughts

LINKS:

WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

DESCRIPTION:
Roy Assad, franchisor of Network Lead Exchange (NLX), discusses his journey from being a top franchisee to owning the company. He talks about his diverse background, including successful stints in insurance sales and various business ventures, which led him to the franchise industry. Assad emphasizes the benefits of franchising, such as the turnkey nature of a good franchise, the potential for substantial income, and the importance of sales skills. He provides an in-depth explanation of NLX's networking model, which is centered on exclusive business groups that foster referrals and relationships. Assad also outlines the responsibilities and success factors for franchisees, underlining the significance of strong networks and effective leadership. He delves into the challenges, growth strategies, and future plans for NLX, which include expanding the franchise network and promoting franchise education. The discussion wraps up with Assad providing insights into NLX's scalability and its attractiveness to both experienced professionals and younger entrepreneurs aspiring to own businesses.

- With Roy Assad

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Intro
00:29 Roy's Journey to Franchising
02:03 The Appeal of Franchising
05:54 Understanding Network Lead Exchange (NLX)
07:27 Becoming an NLX Franchisee
10:31 Building and Managing NLX Groups
15:30 Roy's Success Story
17:22 Member Recruitment Strategies
18:20 Importance of Networking
19:34 Franchisee Requirements and Support
22:40 Meeting Logistics and Costs
23:37 Future Growth and Expansion Plans
25:48 Challenges and Solutions for Franchisees
28:54 Competition and Market Position
31:08 Franchising Education and Opportunities




LINKS:

WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

DESCRIPTION:
John, the host of the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, interviews Randy Cross, a Fish Window Cleaning franchisee and president. Randy narrates his franchising journey which began in 2002 when he met a franchise consultant while working at a technology firm. He dispels misconceptions about franchising, explains the franchisee process, and stresses the importance of adhering to established systems. Randy highlights the crucial role of royalty fees in supporting and promoting growth. He shares his early franchise experiences in Grand Rapids, Michigan, his dedication to the Fish system, and his transition from a hands-on operator to an absentee owner with a well-structured team. Randy also discusses the opportunities and challenges of absentee franchising, the significance of the broker community, and the varied success profiles of franchisees based on their DISC personality types. The future of franchising, the contribution of younger generations, and the influence of socially responsible business practices are also discussed by John and Randy.

- With Randy Cross.

TIMESTAMPS (Use ChatGPT on Transcript):
00:00 Intro
00:16 Discovering Franchising: Randy's Journey
01:07 Transition to Fish Window Cleaning
02:31 Understanding Franchisee Mindset
03:50 Challenges and Rewards of Franchising
05:17 Operational Insights and Strategies
11:47 Absentee Franchising Model
18:16 Franchisee Success Traits
25:40 Engaging the Younger Generation
28:35 Conclusion

LINKS:

WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

DESCRIPTION:
In this podcast, John interviews Victor Ulibarri, an Air Force veteran turned franchisee of Ace Handyman Services. Victor shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, detailing how a Boots to Business class sparked his interest in franchising. He discusses the challenges and advantages of franchising, particularly for veterans through programs like VetFran. Victor emphasizes the importance of brand recognition, discipline, and the support of a robust business plan. He also highlights his success strategy, from finding the right team to the significance of networking and marketing. Overall, the podcast underscores the synergy between military discipline and franchising success.

- With Victor Ulibarri

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Introduction
00:22 Victor's Journey to Franchising
02:51 The Role of VetFran in Victor's Success
05:21 Transitioning from Military to Franchising
09:07 The Importance of Branding in Franchising
12:23 Victor's Experience and Challenges as a Franchisee
18:31 Marketing and Business Development Strategies
30:51 Expanding the Franchise: Albuquerque to Santa Fe
33:01 Future Plans and Conclusion


LINKS:

WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

DESCRIPTION: 
John Hayes, the host of the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, interviews Hao Lam, a successful franchisor with a riveting tale of survival and entrepreneurship. Lam, a Vietnam escapee, narrates his remarkable transition from being a refugee to a prosperous franchisor. He also talks about his book, 'From Bad to Worse to Best in Class,' and how his past experiences influence his dedication to education and franchising. Lam shares his struggles, including near-death starvation at sea and overcoming illiteracy, and his journey of rebuilding his life in North America. He provides insight into the development of his educational franchise, Best in Class, from its initial challenges to its current operational success. Lam stresses the significance of relationships, continuous support, and adherence to a system in franchising. He also discusses his other entrepreneurial ventures beyond education and the importance of remaining focused on one's primary passion. The discussion highlights the human aspect and commitment essential for a successful franchise operation.

- With Hao Lam.


TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Intro
00:35 Hal Lam's Harrowing Escape from Vietnam
03:15 Life in the Philippine Refugee Camp
07:07 Journey to North America
08:47 Starting a New Life in Seattle
10:50 The Birth of an Education Franchise
11:27 Challenges and Successes in Franchising
17:02 Building Strong Franchise Relationships
23:01 Resolving Human Issues in Franchising
23:48 Selecting the Right Franchisees
26:52 Learning from Past Failures
28:38 The Journey of a Franchisor
30:33 Focusing on Education
36:21 The Value of Franchising
45:54 Marketing Strategies for Franchisees
47:58 Future Franchising Opportunities
49:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts



LINKS:

WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

DESCRIPTION:
John and Mark Schnurman, author of 'The Perfect Franchise,' discuss the intricacies of franchising in this podcast. They explore the typical paths people take into franchising, including Mark's personal journey to becoming a franchise consultant. They caution that franchising isn't suitable for everyone, given the financial and commitment requirements. Mark stresses the need for potential franchisees to honestly evaluate their skills and whether a franchise will enhance their lives. The conversation delves into the process of vetting franchise candidates, the misunderstandings about absentee ownership, and the critical role of an owner's dedication. They also tackle the complexities of owning multiple units, the growth and support capabilities of franchisors, and the differences between franchise brokers and consultants. John highlights the value of validation from successful franchisees over national success averages. The conversation underscores the importance of thorough education and appropriate matching in the franchising process.

- With Mark Schnurman.

TIMESTAMPS (Use ChatGPT on Transcript):
00:00 - Intro
00:47 - Mark Schnurman shares how he got into franchising.
02:07 - Discussion on whether franchising is right for you.
03:02 - Understanding why some franchises fail.
04:41 - Explanation of the Six Factor Analysis for evaluating franchises.
06:12 - Tips on lead generation and initial consultations.
07:10 - How to evaluate franchise opportunities.
13:36 - The role of franchise brokers in the process.
19:58 - Challenges faced in franchise consulting.
23:50 - Exploring which industry sectors might suit you.
24:23 - The responsibilities of a franchisee.
25:20 - The importance of resilience and standing out as a franchisee.
25:39 - The pressures of managing multiple franchise units.
29:30 - The concept of “snow sold, not open” in franchising.
36:00 - How to evaluate franchise brokers and consultants.
42:18 - Why understanding franchisee profiles is important.
45:19 - Final thoughts and recommendations for potential franchise owners.


LINKS:

WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

John Hayes hosts Keith Miller on the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast. Miller is a representative of the Franchisee Advocacy Consulting Group, advocating for franchisees, not franchisors. He has led several franchisee advocacy groups, including the American Association of Franchisees and Dealers, the Coalition of Franchise Associations, and the North American Association of Subway Franchisees. Miller and his wife, Karen, have been Subway franchisees since 1988.

Miller is respected by peers, adversaries, the International Franchise Association, and franchisors. He advocates for franchisees, which he points out, are the largest investor group in franchising but have the weakest voice. Hayes asks why more regulation is needed to protect franchisees in America, the most heavily regulated country for franchising. Miller argues that franchising is not the most regulated industry in the country. He points out that while the FTC does have a franchise rule, it has only been enforced twice in the last 17 years.

Miller and his wife became franchisees in 1988. They both have computer science degrees and MBAs. They wanted to own their own business and started looking at franchises. They first looked at Togos, a competitor of Subway, but Togos didn't have any available territories. They then looked at Subway, which was affordable. They still own three Subway franchises, which they originally built out.

Miller discusses the controversy surrounding Subway, stating that it is the best and the worst of franchising all rolled into one. He acknowledges that Subway built too many stores and that many people didn't make it, especially those who took on debt. He also discusses the changes Subway made in 2000, which led to a sales growth of 20%. However, he admits that Subway struggled in the mid-2000s and that the 5-footlong promotion, while initially successful, ultimately led to Subway being recognized as the cheap, low-cost carrier, and they could never raise prices.

Miller concludes by discussing the recent changes at Subway. Fred DeLuca passed away in 2015, and the DeLucas and Bucks maintained ownership of Subway until April 30th, 2024, when Rourke Capital bought Subway. New leadership was brought in in 2019 with the sole purpose of getting the brand ready to sell.

- With Keith Miller.


TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction to the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast
01:21 The Need for Franchisee Protection
03:45 Keith Miller's Background and Journey into Franchising
08:42 Challenges and Controversies in Subway Franchising
14:22 Current State of Subway and Franchisee Vulnerabilities
17:32 The Importance of Franchisee Education and Due Diligence
27:16 The Importance of Consulting a Franchise Lawyer
27:37 The Blame Game: Franchisors vs. Franchisees
28:26 Human Nature in Franchising
28:57 Financial Struggles and Ethical Dilemmas
32:41 The Reality of Franchise Costs
34:28 The Controversial California Broker Bill
40:25 The Role of Regulation in Franchising
48:06 FTC's Stance on Franchising
51:31 Final Thoughts and Advice

LINKS:

WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast