In this enriching episode of The Advisory Board Podcast, brought to you by our generous sponsor ClientTether, we dive deep into the inspirational journey of Daniel Stein, the CEO and Founder of Special Strong. Daniel’s story is one of faith, perseverance, and the transformative power of franchising.

From humble beginnings, starting his first business at the tender age of 17 with an arbitrage of broken phones and random household items, to the impactful enterprise he runs today, Daniel's path has been anything but ordinary. His journey into franchising began with a vision shared by a friend from church. This vision evolved rapidly following a life-altering moment when a video showcasing the progress of a client named Brandon went viral, illustrating Brandon walking again thanks to Special Strong’s training program. Faced with overwhelming demand and limited by geographical boundaries, Daniel was propelled into the franchising world to expand his mission.

Daniel discusses how a few pivotal moments reshaped his life’s work, leading to the establishment of Special Strong, a brand dedicated not just to business, but to making a profound impact on lives. He shares heartfelt stories of how his services have helped special needs youth and adults gain independence, combat depression, and improve physically, which he feels brings an abundant life to his clients, as echoed in John 10:10, a guiding scripture for their work.

The core of Special Strong’s philosophy lies in its foundational values, deeply rooted in biblical verses, shaping not only business strategies but also fostering an inclusive, faith-based community. Despite societal expectations, Daniel emphasizes that building a business on faith principles doesn’t create barriers but invites a diverse clientele united by shared values.

In a candid revelation about the pains of franchising, Daniel opens up about the challenges he faced—from self-funding and incurring debt to dealing with misaligned partners. However, he highlights the invaluable support of coaches like Gerry Henley and technology that empowers franchisees to focus on strategic growth rather than day-to-day operations.
Daniel credits his resilience to the strong support network including his wife, Trinity, and friends who've stood by him through thick and thin, underscoring the importance of community in navigating the arduous journey of franchising.

This episode not only sheds light on the unique challenges of expanding a faith-based business but also serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the strength found in collective support and shared values. Special thanks to ClientTether, whose support makes it possible to share these powerful narratives that inspire and educate our listeners about the transformative potential of faith in franchising.

Join us next time on The Advisory Board Podcast, where we continue to explore compelling stories of leadership, innovation, and impact. Stay tuned and stay inspired!

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