The Scaling Podcast With Aaron Harper How to Franchise the Right Way And Avoid Costly Mistakes | The Scaling Podcast EP 15
Jul 23, 2025
Tariq Johnson, an entrepreneur and former multi-unit franchisee, shares his valuable insights on franchising. He unpacks the stark realities of investing in franchises, highlighting common pitfalls and mismatched expectations. Tariq discusses his personal journey through eight failed businesses and how franchising became his path to success. He emphasizes the importance of education and support for franchise buyers. Listeners will discover why some franchisees thrive while others struggle, and the critical questions aspiring owners should ask before diving in.
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Franchising As A Gateway To Success
- Tariq bought a juice-and-smoothie franchise after eight failed businesses and followed a proven playbook to succeed.
- He turned a resale location profitable and increased sales 35% in a year, which rebuilt his confidence.
Reject The Five-Hour Workweek Pitch
- Don't buy a franchise pitched as a 5–10 hour/week business unless you can verify that claim and math.
- Expect many brands to require far more time and involvement than marketing promises.
Slow Retail Builds And COVID Exit
- Tariq signed a lease in 2015 for a retail location that took 2.5 years to open and used a HELOC to cover interest during the build.
- He later bought a resale in Florida, worked 50–60 hour weeks, then sold the distant California store during COVID.
