DESCRIPTION:

John Hayes, host of the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, interviews Jack Monson, Chief 

Growth Officer at Thunder Lee Marketing and host of the Social Geek podcast. They 

delve into Monson's marketing and client acquisition roles, his franchising journey, 

and the significance of fostering enduring relationships in the franchise sector. The 

discussion encompasses effective marketing tactics, the use of social media 

platforms like LinkedIn, and the importance of content creation for franchise growth. 

Monson provides insights into the difficulties of generating and nurturing franchise 

leads, and the necessity of maintaining consistency in digital marketing initiatives. 

He later underscores the value of training franchise sales teams, acknowledging the 

contributions of the Titus Center. The episode concludes with conversations about 

the Social Geek podcast and the importance of tenacity in content creation.

- With Jack Monson.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Intro

00:22 What does a CGO do?

01:07 Why relationships matter in franchising?

03:03 How did you discover franchising?

08:30 How has franchise marketing evolved?

12:02 Attracting next-gen franchisees how?

17:18 Best social media for franchising?

22:35 Most inspiring franchise success story?

26:14 Biggest franchise sales challenges?

40:46 LinkedIn lead generation tips?

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, host of Franchise Hot Seat, engages in a detailed discussion with Alaina 

B. Karsten from McDonald Hopkins, a professional with significant experience in 

advising franchisors and franchisees and handling litigation. The conversation 

revolves around the intricacies and potential risks associated with franchising, 

underlining the necessity of carefully examining franchise agreements and fully 

comprehending the long-term commitments and responsibilities they entail. Alaina 

underscores the importance of franchisees performing due diligence, seeking legal 

counsel, and fully understanding their contracts, particularly in relation to 

termination, renewal, and the use of advertising funds. She provides insights into 

frequent legal issues such as curable and non-curable defaults, franchisor price 

control, and the rights of franchisees in the event of disputes. The discussion also 

covers the challenges and possible advantages of franchise investment, highlighting 

the benefits of economies of scale and the significance of comprehensive franchisor 

support and training.

- With Alaina B. Karsten.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Intro

00:22 Franchising realities vs expectations?

03:07 Does franchising offer advantages?

04:26 Biggest franchising risks/costs?

07:12 Key franchise agreement clauses?

12:14 Curable vs non-curable defaults?

17:00 Franchisee due diligence checklist?

21:04 Trademark requirements for franchisors?

23:28 Resolving franchise disputes how?

33:45 Advertising fund obligations fair?

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, host of Franchise Hot Seat, interviews former TV news reporter John 

Brice, who transitioned into a successful franchisee and is now preparing to become 

a franchisor. Brice's introduction to franchising came through a family friend who 

owned a McDonald's franchise. This sparked his interest and led him to owning eight 

McDonald's restaurants. He later became an area developer for Firehouse Subs and 

the largest U.S. franchisee of Pro Shred Security. Brice discusses the challenges and 

rewards of franchise ownership, including financial risks and the necessity of 

comprehensive training programs. He is currently preparing to become a franchisor 

with his wife's business, Ana's Killer Empanadas, with plans to expand the gourmet 

empanada chain. Brice stresses the importance of adhering to established systems 

and maintaining a hands-on approach in the business. He also shares his 

involvement with the Titus Center for Franchising, highlighting the value of shared 

knowledge and the promising prospects for students interested in the franchising 

industry.

- With John Brice.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00: Intro

00:17 How did John discover franchising?

01:38 McDonald's franchise lessons learned?

03:49 Managing multiple franchises how?

05:54 Biggest franchise ownership challenges?

08:05 Best advice for new franchisees?

20:32 Most inspiring franchise success stories?

25:19 Ideal franchisee traits?

27:30 Why empanadas for franchising?

30:28 Expansion plans for Killer Empanadas?

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, host of Franchise Hot Seat, interviews Shay Kleinschmidt, Vice President 

of Funding at Fran Fund, a company based in Fort Worth, Texas, that provides 

funding solutions to franchisees nationwide. Kleinschmidt discusses the changing 

franchising landscape, stressing the importance of early and tailored funding 

strategies. She also highlights the role of AI in enhancing lending processes, 

including a lender match system that matches client profiles with appropriate 

lenders. The discussion encompasses various funding products such as SBA loans, 

the rollover 401k program (ROBS), and traditional non-SBA loans. Kleinschmidt 

outlines the process of obtaining an SBA loan, indicating that approval typically 

takes between 30 and 120 days depending on the type of business. She emphasizes 

the need for potential investors to understand the franchise disclosure document 

(FDD) and supports calls with existing franchisees. The episode highlights Fran 

Fund's role in helping clients navigate the complexities of securing franchise 

funding.

- With Shay Kleinschmidt.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:59 How tech changed franchise lending?

01:59 When to start funding talks?

03:02 Most popular loan products?

05:35 Best alternative lending options?

12:33 Typical borrowing costs/fees?

15:47 How economy impacts franchising?

20:51 SBA franchise approval process?

24:41 Hottest franchise categories now?

30:35 Best advice for new franchisees?

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 Alesia Visconti on Franchise Hot Seat, where she discusses 

her transition from corporate America to franchising, a move sparked by 

disillusionment. Visconti, owner of Fran Serve and author of 'The Pink Tsunami: 

Women's Rise in Franchising', highlights the lack of awareness about franchising 

opportunities, especially for women. She underscores the variety of roles within 

franchising, not limited to being a franchisee, but also including franchise 

consultants and suppliers. The conversation covers the changing franchising 

landscape, the significance of integrity and growth, and the growing international 

opportunities. Visconti expresses her support for the Titus Center for Franchising and 

her dedication to aiding young individuals in finding fulfilling franchising careers. 

The discussion provides valuable insights into how franchising can offer rewarding 

careers, particularly for women looking for alternatives to traditional corporate roles.

- With Alesia Visconti.

TIMESTAMPS:

01:42 How did you discover franchising?

02:50 Why leave corporate America?

04:04 Becoming franchise consultant how?

06:57 Franchising challenges vs opportunities?

21:40 Women's role in franchising?

25:58 Best franchising paths for women?

28:09 What do franchise consultants do?

33:43 Non-food franchise opportunities?

39:21 International franchising strategies?

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:

Anthony Bambino, the founder and CEO of 3Natives, shares his journey from a 

traveling salesman to the owner of a successful acai cafe franchise in Florida on the 

Franchise Hot Seat. He discusses the transformation of 3Natives from a single juice 

bar to a rapidly expanding franchise with 48 stores and more under development. 

Bambino talks about his experiences with franchising, the initial struggles, the 

significance of company culture, and the importance of finding the right franchisee 

fit. He also emphasizes the value of mentorship and collaboration with institutions 

like the Titus Center for Franchising to promote growth and success. Bambino 

underscores the importance of adaptability, passion, and strong leadership in 

building a successful franchise business.

- With Anthony Bambino

TIMESTAMPS:

00:23 How a salesman became an entrepreneur?

02:02 What inspired Three Natives?

04:18 Biggest early business lessons?

07:11 First franchising challenges faced?

11:43 Building franchise culture how?

23:41 Reinventing franchise inspections why?

25:57 Hardest part of franchising?

29:40 Expanding beyond Florida when?

40:47 Why does the Titus Center matter?

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 Madalina Iordache, founder of Bright Pink Agency, on the 

Franchise Hot Seat Podcast. They explore Iordache's transition from Romania to the 

United States, her journalism career, and her shift into the franchising industry. 

Iordache recounts her initial experiences in the U.S., her introduction to the 

franchising industry in 2008, and her substantial contributions to brands such as 

Puro Clean. The discussion emphasizes the significance of culture, community, and 

support in the franchising industry, drawing comparisons with non-franchise 

businesses. They underscore the distinctive features of franchising, including 

mentorship, collective success, and its transformative effect on small business 

owners, advocating for the supportive and organized environment franchising 

provides in contrast to independent business ventures.

- Madalina Iordache.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Intro

00:35 The Name Game and Romanian Roots

01:43 Journey to the United States

02:21 Early Career and Personal Life

07:02 Discovering Franchising

09:16 The Impact of Franchising

15:39 Franchising Success Stories

19:46 The Importance of Culture in Franchising

20:34 Learning from Franchise Systems

21:33 Franchising vs. Non-Franchising Businesses

22:38 The Unique Advantages of Franchising

27:51 Criticisms and Misconceptions of Franchising

30:18 The Role of Creativity in Franchising

35:51 Adapting Franchises to Local Markets

37:08 The Opportunity Franchising Provides

38:53 Final Thoughts

DESCRIPTION:

Dr. John Hayes interviews Larry Strain, Chief Development Officer of Retro Fitness, in 

the Franchise Hot Seat episode, discussing the complexities of real estate in retail 

franchising. Larry shares his three-decade experience in retail development, 

highlighting the changes brought about by e-commerce giants like Amazon. He 

underscores the growing significance of service-based retailers, particularly fitness 

centers, and the real estate challenges they encounter, such as competition for 

space and parking needs. Larry points out the crucial role of franchisors in 

supporting franchisees, especially newcomers, by managing broker negotiations, 

lease terms, and construction. He compares the ease of development between 

various brands he has worked with, including Starbucks and McDonald’s, and 

identifies key factors for long-term franchisee success, such as understanding 

customer needs and reinvesting in the business. The conversation also covers the 

cyclical nature of the real estate market, the importance of choosing the right 

location, and the impact of institutional pressures on franchise sales and selection 

criteria.

- With Larry Strain.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction 

00:29 The State of Retail and Fitness Franchising

01:21 Challenges in Real Estate for Fitness Franchises

02:24 Iconic Brands and Real Estate Development

04:32 Navigating Real Estate for New Franchisees

07:36 Franchisor Support in Real Estate

10:53 The Importance of Strategic Real Estate Planning

24:13 Traits of Top Performing Franchisees

32:27 The Role of Strategy in Franchise Expansion

33:32 Food vs. Fitness Franchises

34:29 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:

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