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On this episode of the FranchiseU! Podcast, host Dr. Kathy Gosser interviews Felipe Martinez, Vice President of Franchise Development at Estrella Insurance, about franchise ownership, franchise development, due diligence, and finding the right franchisees for long-term growth. Estrella Insurance has more than 45 years of operating history and over 240 franchise-owned locations across nine states. Felipe has helped lead the brand’s franchise development efforts for the past nine years, guiding prospective owners as they evaluate the Estrella Insurance business model, the insurance industry, and whether franchise ownership is the right fit. Felipe explains why successful franchise development is about more than selling an opportunity. It requires carefully qualifying candidates and, at times, saying no when the fit is not right. He shares the qualities he looks for in successful franchise owners, including strong communication skills, a customer-service mindset, sales ability, leadership, and a willingness to follow a proven franchise system. Felipe also discusses one of the biggest mistakes prospective franchisees can make: allowing emotion to replace proper franchise due diligence. He emphasizes researching the opportunity, understanding the business model, asking difficult questions, and speaking with both current and former franchisees before making a decision. In this episode, you’ll learn: What franchise development professionals look for in prospective franchiseesHow to conduct effective franchise due diligenceWhy speaking with current and former franchisees is criticalWhat makes a successful franchise ownerHow franchising can support first-time business owners Felipe Martinez is Vice President of Franchise Development at Estrella Insurance, where he helps entrepreneurs evaluate franchise ownership and pursue responsible business growth. His background includes sales, franchise development, coaching, consulting, real estate development, business development, and negotiation. Estrella Insurance is an established insurance franchise brand with more than 45 years of operating history and more than 240 franchise-owned locations across nine states. Make sure to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows. Learn more about the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.   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.

Jim Metevier’s career journey has taken him from restaurant assistant manager to CEO, with more than 30 years of experience across major restaurant brands.   In this episode of FranchiseU, host Dr. Kathy Gosser reconnects with her former KFC colleague Jim Metevier, CEO of Mountain Mike’s Pizza. Jim shares his journey from KFC assistant manager to more than two decades with Yum! Brands, where he held leadership roles across operations, finance, marketing, development, and strategy before becoming Chief Operating Officer of KFC U.S. He later served as president of Biscuitville before joining Mountain Mike’s in 2018.   Jim was named CEO of Mountain Mike’s in 2023. Under his leadership, the California-born brand surpassed 300 locations in 2025 and now has more than 100 restaurants in development across 17 states.   Jim explains how Yum!’s people-first culture shaped his leadership style, emphasizing listening, developing people, building relationships, and creating systems that support franchisee success.   As Mountain Mike’s expands, Jim says success starts with choosing franchise partners who will become active members of their communities. The brand supports growth through local outreach, PR, sampling, partnerships, and a strong Franchise Support Center mindset.   For Jim, growth is not simply about adding locations. His primary goal is 100% franchisee success.   He closes with advice for emerging leaders: stay flexible, keep learning, build relationships, help others succeed, and “lead with your ears.”   Topics covered include: • Jim Metevier’s journey from KFC assistant manager to CEO • Leadership lessons from KFC and Yum! Brands • Selecting community-focused franchise partners • Building a Franchise Support Center culture • Balancing expansion with franchisee success • Career advice for emerging leaders   Learn more about the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.   #JimMetevier #MountainMikesPizza #KFC #YumBrands #Biscuitville #FranchiseLeadership #FranchiseDevelopment #FranchiseGrowth #FranchiseeSuccess #FranchiseProfitability #RestaurantFranchising #PizzaFranchise #FranchiseSupport #FranchiseU #YumCenterForGlobalFranchiseExcellence   Make sure 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 Lori Riddle Eberenz, Director of Global Public Relations and Storytelling for Yum! Brands, to discuss how storytelling builds brands, strengthens franchise relationships, supports business strategy and helps leaders communicate through change and crisis.   Lori shares her journey from journalism and agency work to nearly a decade with KFC and her current global role at Yum! Brands. She reflects on memorable KFC campaigns and explains that the best brand stories give people a reason to care, support the business strategy and remain authentic to the brand.   She also discusses the importance of trust and relationships in franchising, including the story of KFC franchisee Clinton Lewis, who began as a teenage cook and later became an owner.   Lori and Kathy explore how public relations has evolved as companies rely more on owned media, including social channels, corporate newsrooms, podcasts and video. Lori also shares practical lessons from crisis communications, including why organizations should respond quickly, communicate what they know and avoid waiting until every detail is available.   The conversation becomes personal as Lori reflects on surviving Stage II breast cancer. She shares how the experience changed her priorities, strengthened her focus on health and reinforced the importance of finding small moments of joy. She also explains the idea of “don’t hog your journey,” and why sharing difficult experiences can help others facing similar challenges.   The episode closes with Lori’s advice to students and young professionals: pursue internships, learn what kinds of work energize you and begin building relationships with mentors early in your career.   Topics Covered What makes a great brand storyStorytelling as business strategyLori’s career at KFC and Yum! BrandsBuilding trust with franchiseesModern PR and owned mediaCrisis communicationLeadership and franchisee alignmentSurviving breast cancer and finding joy“Don’t hog your journey”Internships, mentors and career development  About Lori Riddle Eberenz   Lori Riddle Eberenz is Director of Global Public Relations and Storytelling for Yum! Brands. Over more than a decade with Yum! Brands and KFC, she has helped lead communications during periods of innovation, growth and transformation.   Previously, Lori led public relations and partnerships for KFC U.S. She is a PRWeek 40 Under 40 honoree and holds degrees from Lindsey Wilson University and the University of Missouri School of Journalism.   A breast cancer survivor, Lori is passionate about helping others find joy and share the lessons from their own journeys. She lives in Louisville with her husband, Josh, and their two daughters.   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.

On this episode of the FranchiseU Podcast, host Dr. Kathy Gosser interviews Alex Nessenthaler, Franchise Owner of Magnolia Bakery in Louisville, Kentucky, about her journey from corporate retail leadership to franchise ownership. Alex spent years in the fashion industry, most recently overseeing North American retail for Tory Burch. After a career that required frequent travel, she began reconsidering what success looked like for her family. She and her husband, Patrick, moved back to Louisville to raise their two young boys, and Alex explored entrepreneurship as a way to continue building brands while creating more flexibility. After evaluating several industries, she discovered that Magnolia Bakery, a brand she already loved, was beginning to franchise. Her experience in retail operations, leadership, customer experience, and brand development helped make her a strong fit. Alex discusses becoming one of Magnolia Bakery’s earliest franchisees, including a month of hands-on training in New York across bakery operations. She explains the importance of brand standards, operational consistency, and active ownership when bringing an established brand into a new market. Recorded just one week after the Louisville location opened, the conversation also covers the realities of launching a food and beverage business, including staffing, seasonality, customer expectations, and the fast pace of daily operations. Leadership remains central to Alex’s approach. She shares her belief that “happy people make happy business” and explains how building a motivated team directly affects the customer experience. Alex also discusses the support she receives from Magnolia Bakery, the importance of the franchisor-franchisee partnership, and her plans to open three Louisville locations while exploring additional growth across Kentucky and nearby markets. For anyone considering franchise ownership or leaving a corporate career for entrepreneurship, Alex’s story offers a practical look at how leadership experience and brand-building skills can translate into business ownership. Topics Covered in This Episode Transitioning from corporate leadership to franchise ownershipChoosing the right franchise opportunityBecoming an early franchisee of an established brandFranchise training and maintaining brand standardsLaunching a food and beverage businessBuilding and leading a motivated teamCreating strong customer experiencesThe franchisor-franchisee relationshipBalancing entrepreneurship and family prioritiesGrowing through additional locations, catering, partnerships, and community engagement Time Stamps 00:00 Redefining Success 01:29 From Fashion to Tory Burch 03:48 Why She Left Corporate 05:01 Finding Magnolia Through Franchising 07:02 Winning the Franchise 08:40 Training and Quality Standards 09:30 Early Franchisee Impact 12:12 Product Passion and Menu 13:30 Opening Day in Louisville 15:01 Building a Happy Team 16:02 Fast Pace of Food 18:21 Support From Magnolia HQ 20:42 Franchise Partnership Playbook 24:05 Doubts and New Success 26:08 Growth Plans and Community 27:34 Lessons and Closing Thoughts

Today Dr. Kathy Gosser welcomes Abby Epperly, General Manager and co-owner of Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii – Rock Hill in South Carolina. Abby opened the location with her father, Doug Epperly, in May 2026 and now oversees day-to-day operations while helping create a welcoming gathering place for the community.   Abby’s journey began at the University of Louisville, where she became the first student to earn the undergraduate certificate in franchise management. Before taking her first franchise course, she largely associated franchising with major fast-food brands and assumed ownership was reserved for people with significant wealth. Courses in franchise fundamentals and franchise law changed that perspective and helped her see the range of industries, investment levels, and opportunities available in franchising.   After graduation, Abby participated in the Disney College Program, gaining experience in hospitality, customer service, and relationship-building. She later worked in social media for her father’s packaging company before returning to an idea that had stayed with her since college: becoming a franchise owner.   Abby first discovered Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii while researching franchise brands for a class. Beyond the memorable name, she connected with the company’s focus on ohana, aloha spirit, positivity, family, and community. After some persistence, she convinced her father to explore the opportunity, eventually turning the idea into a father-daughter business partnership.   Abby also shares what happens after deciding to become a franchisee, including evaluating financial viability, reviewing franchise agreements, navigating real estate and lease terms, and relying on attorneys and other experts. She discusses the many relationships involved in opening and operating a franchise and the unique challenge of working with a parent while maintaining healthy boundaries between business and family.   Today, Abby is focused on making the Rock Hill location more than a coffee shop. She has watched it become a gathering place for families, friends, community organizations, and local groups. Meanwhile, she and her father are already thinking bigger. Their development agreement includes at least three Bad Ass Coffee locations in York County, with the possibility of eventually owning multiple brands.   Abby also explains why she believes franchising should be taught in universities. With opportunities spanning restaurants, professional services, childcare, pet care, home services, and many other industries, franchising can introduce students to careers and paths to business ownership they may never have considered.   Her advice to future franchisees is simple: the franchisor can provide the systems and the playbook, but success still depends on what the franchisee does with it.   In This Episode How franchise education changed Abby’s view of entrepreneurshipLessons from Disney she applies to hospitality and leadershipWhy Abby chose Bad Ass Coffee of HawaiiWhat aspiring franchisees should know about due diligenceCreating a true community gathering placeWhy Abby believes universities should teach franchisingAdvice for students and future franchise owners  Make sure to subscribe to FranchiseU! on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, 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 special episode of FranchiseU, co-host Dr. Zac Goldman sits down with fellow University of Louisville colleague and longtime corporate leader Dr. Kathy Gosser to explore the enduring leadership philosophy of Colonel Harland Sanders.   Dr. Gosser shares firsthand insights from her 35-year career at KFC and Yum! Brands, breaking down how a simple roadside restaurant transformed into a global fast-food empire through radical persistence, trust, and a commitment to doing things the "Hard Way." Together, they discuss how Sanders' core principles shaped the culture of KFC and Yum! Brands by providing 11 timeless Leadership Lessons. ________________________________________   What You'll Learn in This Episode: The Power of Reinvention: How Colonel Sanders rebuilt his business from scratch after highway construction bypassed his original roadside restaurant. The 1,009 Rejections: Why ultimate persistence is the secret weapon for any aspiring entrepreneur or franchise founder. The "Nickel a Head" Handshake: How early franchise expansion relied entirely on trust, relationship-building, and mutual respect. The Origin of the KFC Name: The story behind franchisee Pete Harman naming the iconic brand. The Importance of Brand Quality: Why simplicity, consistency, and a "back to basics" approach are vital to scaling a global supply chain. Leadership Creating Legacy: How the KFC Foundation continues Sanders' mission through education and scholarships. How Relationships ARE the Brand: Trust between the franchisor and franchisee is the ultimate currency for sustainable growth. How Continuous Learning is Paramount: Great leaders never stop acquiring knowledge, a trait that defined Sanders' life. Examples of a Service-First Mindset: True business success comes from serving both your end customers and your internal franchise partners.     About Your Hosts   Dr. Kathy Gosser Dr. Kathy Gosser joined the University of Louisville College of Business faculty in 2019 following an illustrious 35-year career at Yum! Brands. Her final role at the corporation was Director of Learning & Organizational Development, alongside serving as the Chair of the KFC Foundation. She holds a PhD in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development and an MBA from UofL, as well as a BA in Journalism from Indiana University.   Dr. Zachary “Zac” Goldman Dr. Zachary Goldman is an academic leader and faculty member in the University of Louisville College of Business, serving as Chair of the Department of Management & Entrepreneurship. As the Director of Online Teaching & Learning and the founding Program Director of the Online MBA, he designs innovative, student-centered digital education. His research focuses on leadership, communication, and integrating AI and analytics responsibly into business education.   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 the FranchiseU! Podcast, Dr. Kathy Gosser speaks with Matt Kunz, President and CEO of Fastest Labs, about relationship-first leadership, franchisee coaching, and the systems required to support sustainable growth. Matt draws on more than 27 years in franchising, beginning with his experience as a Sylvan Learning franchisee. By closely following the operating model, maintaining disciplined marketing and sales practices, and focusing on execution, he outperformed many of his peers, acquired struggling centers, and successfully turned them around. That experience eventually led him to Sylvan’s corporate operations team and later to leadership roles at Neighborly, where he guided brands including Mr. Rooter Plumbing and Five Star Painting.   Today, Matt leads Fastest Labs, a private-equity-backed franchise system with approximately 250 locations providing drug, alcohol, and DNA testing services. The company serves businesses and individuals through compliance-focused solutions, rapid results, and respectful customer service. During the conversation, Matt explains why franchisees must develop a strong business-to-business sales mindset, how local relationship-building supports lead generation, and how national accounts help the brand serve clients with operations across multiple markets. He also discusses mentorship, communication, franchisee accountability, and the importance of combining proven processes with personal connection.   Matt brings more than two decades of franchise leadership experience and has helped guide several brands through significant periods of growth. Most notably, he helped scale Five Star Painting from $41 million to $156 million in systemwide revenue. He has led franchise systems ranging from roughly 230 to more than 300 locations, consistently emphasizing people, operational discipline, and long-term performance. Matt holds an Executive MBA and the Certified Franchise Executive designation. His leadership philosophy is captured in a central message from the episode: growth is a relationship sport backed by process.   Key topics include: ·        Relationships come before results. ·        Strong processes support strong relationships. ·        Franchisees must actively develop their markets. ·        B2B selling is largely a mindset. ·        Sell the solution, not the service. ·        Growth requires reflection and coaching. ·        Mentorship accelerates leadership development.   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.

Today Dr. Kathy Gosser sits down with Chequan Lewis, President of Crunch Fitness, to discuss his remarkable leadership journey from Howard University and Harvard Law School to the helm of one of the world's fastest-growing fitness franchises. Originally aspiring to a career in public service, Lewis began as a litigator before joining Pizza Hut as a franchise attorney, where a pivotal conversation with Yum! Brands CEO David Gibbs led him into operations. That decision ultimately propelled him to become Pizza Hut U.S. Chief Operating Officer and the company's first Chief Equity Officer before taking the reins at Crunch Fitness.   Drawing on his unique blend of legal, operational, and strategic leadership experience, Lewis shares how learning the business at the unit level shaped his leadership philosophy and why building repeatable systems, listening deeply to franchisees, and leading with humility and intentionality are essential for sustainable growth. He also explains what sets Crunch Fitness apart in a crowded marketplace, from delivering high-value experiences at affordable prices to fostering a culture of belonging through the brand's signature "Crunch-isms." The conversation explores franchise growth, operational excellence, franchisee engagement, and the challenges of scaling while maintaining culture, offering valuable insights for franchise leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in building organizations that grow through strong relationships and purposeful leadership.   Key topics include: Great leaders learn the business from the front lines.Career growth comes from embracing unexpected opportunities.Strong franchise systems are built on partnership, not control.Culture is a brand's greatest competitive advantage.Leadership begins with humility, authenticity, and intentionality.  We are happy to report that since the recording of this interview on June 9, 2026, Chequan Lewis was selected to be the new CEO of Crunch Fitness. Congratulations Chequan! 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 Amanda Valente, co-founder and COO of Renovation Sells, to discuss how her company is transforming the home renovation experience through a franchise model built on speed, transparency, quality, and predictability.   Amanda shares her journey from legal marketing to franchise leadership and explains why Renovation Sells was founded to address many of the frustrations homeowners and real estate professionals commonly face during renovation projects. From missed deadlines and budget overruns to poor communication and uncertainty, the company was designed to provide a streamlined, white-glove renovation experience that meets the expectations of today's consumers.   The conversation explores how Renovation Sells combines financing, design, and construction under one roof to simplify the renovation process for buyers, sellers, and real estate agents. Amanda discusses the company's budget-driven approach, which focuses on helping clients make smart investment decisions rather than encouraging unnecessary upgrades. She also explains how franchise owners serve as trusted advisors, helping clients maximize both home value and return on investment.   Amanda and Kathy discuss the importance of building trust in an industry where communication and reliability often determine success. They examine how the company balances a proven operational playbook with the flexibility needed for franchisees to respond to the unique needs of their local markets. Amanda also shares insights into the company's thoughtful growth strategy, its commitment to empowering women leaders within the construction industry, and the importance of finding franchise owners who value relationships, service, and long-term customer success.   Whether you're interested in franchising, entrepreneurship, real estate, construction, or business leadership, this episode offers valuable lessons on creating scalable systems, maintaining culture during growth, and building a brand that solves real customer problems.   Key topics include: Why trust is the foundation of every renovation projectHow consumer expectations are changing the industryBuilding systems that scale without sacrificing local expertiseThe importance of culture and leadership in franchise growth  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 explores how franchise education can open doors to careers that many students and professionals never realize exist. Franchising supports millions of jobs, fuels entrepreneurship, creates pathways to generational wealth, and touches nearly every aspect of business; from operations and marketing to finance, legal strategy, and relationship management. Yet despite its economic impact, franchising remains largely absent from traditional business school curricula.   Joining the conversation are two graduates of the University of Louisville’s franchise education programs who have built successful careers through the opportunities they discovered in the industry.   Marlee Henson, a recent University of Louisville graduate and Franchise Management Certificate recipient, shares how a single class introduced her to the vast franchising ecosystem. Now working at FranNet at the intersection of franchise development and marketing, Marlee discusses how hands-on coursework, including analyzing Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs), helped prepare her for a career dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs find the right path to business ownership. She also reflects on how internships, networking, and franchise education transformed her understanding of the business world.   Shannon Iverson, Vice President of Franchise Growth at El Pollo Loco, brings a seasoned leadership perspective to the discussion. After beginning her career in manufacturing and global business development, Shannon transitioned into franchising, helping drive growth for brands including Marco’s Pizza and Taco John’s before joining El Pollo Loco. She discusses how earning the University of Louisville’s Graduate Certificate in Franchise Management and leveraging Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) credits accelerated her professional growth. Shannon also shares insights on franchise expansion, international development, leadership, and the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation of franchise professionals.   Together, Kathy, Marlee, and Shannon discuss the value of franchise education, the diverse career opportunities available within the industry, the role of mentorship and networking, and why franchising offers one of the most overlooked pathways to professional and entrepreneurial success.   Key topics include: The economic impact of franchising and its role across industriesThe University of Louisville’s franchise education programsHow franchise coursework prepares students for real-world careersCareer pathways beyond franchise ownershipReviewing and understanding Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs)The connection between franchise education, internships, and job placementTransitioning into franchising from other industriesInternational franchise expansion and development strategiesLeadership, mentorship, and professional growth in franchisingThe value of the Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) programBuilding sustainable franchise growth through strategic partnerships  Whether you're a student exploring career options, a professional considering a career pivot, or a franchise leader interested in developing future talent, this episode highlights the many ways franchise education can create opportunities and shape careers.     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.

On this episode of the FranchiseU! Podcast, host Dr. Kathy Gosser sits down with Alvaro Leal, Director of Business Development at 1-TOM-PLUMBER, to explore why franchising and the home services industry are attracting a new generation of entrepreneurs. Leal shares his journey from marketing work with Chick-fil-A to the fast-growing plumbing franchise sector, drawn by the power of scalable systems, operational consistency, and recession-resistant demand. He explains how 1-TOM-PLUMBER built a nationally recognized brand around 24/7 emergency plumbing services, while intentionally creating a customer-first identity shaped by the fact that more than 80% of plumbing service calls come from women.   The conversation also dives into what separates successful franchise owners from the rest, including the importance of hands-on leadership, following proven SOPs, understanding the FDD, and developing strong sales and customer service skills. Leal discusses the company’s rapid expansion to more than 113 awarded territories across 28 states, the support franchisees receive through in-house marketing, technology, training, and operational systems, and how the brand’s growth within Eversmith Brands is creating new national opportunities in the home services space. This episode offers an inside look at one of franchising’s fastest-growing industries and the business systems driving its momentum.   Key topics include: ·     Alvaro Leal’s path from Chick-fil-A marketing into franchising and home services. ·     Overview of 1-TOM-PLUMBER and its 24/7 emergency plumbing business model. ·     The appeal of scalable franchise systems that can be replicated across markets. ·     Professionalism, customer trust, and clean branding as differentiators in the home services industry. ·     The importance of relationship-building and dedicated salespeople in commercial accounts. ·     What the role of Director of Business Development looks like in a franchise organization.     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 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   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.

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.