Most people think getting into a franchise is as simple as finding the right brand and writing a check. But for the best franchise opportunities, approval is a two-way street.

In this episode of The Sidekick Life, Mike Silverman sits down with Franchise Sidekick advisor Regan Clemenson, who spent years on the franchisor side of the table helping decide which candidates were approved — and which were not.

Together, they break down what actually happens during the franchise approval process, including Discovery Day, Confirmation Day, validation calls, and the small details that can make or break your chances of getting approved.

You’ll learn how to show up prepared, ask better questions, position yourself as a strong franchise partner, and avoid common mistakes that cause candidates to lose out on the business they want.

If you’re exploring franchise ownership and want to stay in the driver’s seat, this episode will help you understand what brands are really looking for.