
I Fired My Boss - A Franchise Podcast
Welcome to the I Fired My Boss Franchise Podcast, formerly known as the Franchise Founders Podcast. Hosted by Dan Claps, founder and CEO of Franchise Playbook—a platform that creates, owns, and operates dynamic franchise brands in the mobile services space—this show is dedicated to helping people like you fire your boss and take control of your future through business ownership. Dan’s mission is to empower aspiring entrepreneurs to hire themselves and live the American dream through franchise opportunities.
Latest episodes

May 24, 2023 • 1h 1min
Breaking the Chains of Employment & Pursuing Entrepreneurship - Dan Claps, Christian Dadulak
In this episode of the podcast titled "I Fired My Boss," Dan and Christian chat with Michael Derek, a multi-brand franchise owner. The episode focuses on Michael's journey into franchising and his experiences as a franchisee. Michael shares his story of how he transitioned from being a teacher to becoming a successful franchise owner. He talks about his initial encounter with Tim Hortons, a franchise brand, and how he saw potential in it despite his initial reservations. Michael discusses the challenges and triumphs he faced while expanding his franchise portfolio, including the importance of building a strong team and making strategic partnerships. He also reflects on the impact of corporate changes on his franchise business and the fight to protect his profitability. Overall, the episode provides an informative and candid account of Michael's franchise journey, highlighting both the positives and negatives of franchise ownership.This episode of the "I Fired My Boss" podcast features guest Michael Derek, a seasoned franchise owner with multiple brands. Hosted by Dan Claps and co-host Christian Dadulak, the episode delves into Michael's entrance into franchising and his career as a franchisee. Michael shares his unique path, starting from his teaching background and his initial doubts about franchise ownership. He recounts the pivotal moment when he discovered Tim Hortons and the decision to invest in the brand. The episode covers the challenges faced by Michael during his expansion, such as managing multiple locations and dealing with personnel issues. Michael's experience with the changing landscape of the franchise industry, including corporate transitions and profitability concerns, adds a dose of reality to the discussion. Through Michael's story, listeners gain valuable insights into the highs and lows of franchise ownership and the importance of adaptability and perseverance in the face of challenges.Welcome to the I Fired My Boss Franchise podcast, hosted by Dan Claps and Christian Dadulak. Dan Claps is the founder and CEO of Franchise Playbook, a franchise or platform that creates, owns and operates dynamic franchise brands in the mobile services space. His life's goal is to help people just like you fire their boss and become a business owner. Christian Dadulak is a top franchise consultant and co-founder of Real Franchising, a leading franchise consulting firm. And together they're on a mission to help people fire their boss, hire themselves, and live the American dream through franchise ownership.If you want to fire your boss, make sure you head on over to https://ifiredmybosspodcast.com and fill out the form to schedule a no-cost consultation. And if you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, leave a review and share with a friend who might also want to fire their boss.The I Fired My Boss Podcast is a huge supporter of the International Franchise Association (IFA). If you are a fan of franchising and have an interest in joining the franchise community, the IFA is a great place to start! Learn more here: https://www.franchise.org/about-us

May 19, 2023 • 8min
Rebranding the Show: What To Expect From "I Fired My Boss" - Dan Claps, Christian Dadulak
In the first episode of the newly rebranded "I Fired My Boss" podcast, hosts Dan Claps and Christian Dadulak introduce the show and discuss the reasons behind the name change. Previously known as the "Franchise Founders Podcast," the hosts explain their desire to focus on helping individuals achieve the American dream of business ownership. They aim to provide aspiring franchisees with the right information and insights from successful franchisees to equip them for success in their entrepreneurial journey. The hosts express their intention to feature franchisees and thought leaders from both within and outside the franchising industry, offering authentic and transparent stories about the ups and downs of franchising to help listeners make informed decisions about pursuing franchise ownership.The hosts emphasize the podcast's goal of inspiring and empowering individuals to take control of their lives by firing their bosses, whether that boss is a literal figure or a metaphor for anything that holds them back from becoming the CEO of their own lives. They discuss the gratifying feeling of achieving financial freedom and share their excitement about the rebranding, promising unadulterated stories about the good, the bad, and the ugly aspects of franchise ownership. The hosts express their gratitude to the audience for their support and reveal upcoming changes, including new cover art and branding. Overall, the "I Fired My Boss" podcast aims to provide valuable insights and resources for anyone considering franchise ownership, offering a platform to learn from the experiences of successful franchisees and inspiring stories of those who have escaped the corporate world to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.Welcome to the I Fired My Boss Franchise podcast, hosted by Dan Claps and Christian Dadulak. Dan Claps is the founder and CEO of Franchise Playbook, a franchise or platform that creates, owns and operates dynamic franchise brands in the mobile services space. His life's goal is to help people just like you fire their boss and become a business owner. Christian Dadulak is a top franchise consultant and co-founder of Real Franchising, a leading franchise consulting firm. And together they're on a mission to help people fire their boss, hire themselves, and live the American dream through franchise ownership.If you want to fire your boss, make sure you head on over to https://ifiredmybosspodcast.com and fill out the form to schedule a no-cost consultation. And if you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, leave a review and share with a friend who might also want to fire their boss.The I Fired My Boss Podcast is a huge supporter of the International Franchise Association (IFA). If you are a fan of franchising and have an interest in joining the franchise community, the IFA is a great place to start! Learn more here: https://www.franchise.org/about-us

May 17, 2023 • 43min
"Hopping" Up A Food Concept With Top Tech - Dan Claps, Christian Dadulak
In this episode of the Franchise Founders Podcast, co-host Christian Dadulak interviews guest Joseph Tota, the founder of Tapville. Joseph shares his entrepreneurial journey and how he came up with the concept for his business. He talks about his background as a management consultant and his realization of the problems in the restaurant industry, such as staffing issues, waste, and lack of data analytics. This led him to develop his own concept for a technology-forward hospitality operation with a tap room where customers can pour their own beer using a card and a tap wall. Joseph also discusses the expansion of Tapville through franchising, with upcoming locations and different formats, including kiosks in shopping malls and mobile tap rooms at festivals. The concept focuses on using technology to create a better guest experience and offers opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow within the system.The conversation highlights the unique aspects of Tapville, including its scalability and emphasis on data analytics. Joseph explains how the brand differentiates itself by leveraging the wealth of customer data they collect. This data helps with inventory management, allows for personalized marketing, and enhances customer retention. The franchise model also provides training and support to ensure consistency across locations. Joseph emphasizes the inclusivity of the concept, offering different ownership options that cater to entrepreneurs at various stages and financial levels. The interview showcases the innovative and customer-centric nature of tapville, providing a fresh perspective on adult dining and entertainment.Welcome to the Franchise Founders Podcast. We are on a mission to help aspiring entrepreneurs just like you take action through franchise ownership allowing you to obtain more financial freedom, time with family, and ultimately, a business that can run on its own without you.Dan Claps has co-founded several franchise development firms and currently runs Franchise Playbook. Christian Dadulak is a successful Franchise Consultant and runs his independent Franchise Consulting business, Real Franchising. Franchise Founders is a huge supporter of the International Franchise Association (IFA). If you are a fan of franchising and have an interest in joining the franchise community, the IFA is a great place to start! Learn more here: https://www.franchise.org/about-us

4 snips
May 12, 2023 • 47min
How to Build Bulletproof Systems in Your Business - Dan Claps, Christian Dadulak
In this episode, Dan and Christian chat with Larry Layton, founder of 4Wall Insights, a franchise consulting firm that specializes in coaching emerging franchisors on how to improve their operations. Larry shares his family's compelling story about how they came to America after fleeing turmoil in Guatemala many years ago, as well as how he started his franchising career with some big names in franchising. From Taco Bell to Burger King to Buffalo Wild Wings and beyond, Larry has established himself as an expert on improving a franchise's systems. As a former master franchisee, Larry also offers some practical advice to franchisees on how to avoid common operating mistakes and how to build the right team so that you can truly build a business that can run on its own without you. Tune in to learn from an operations master and level up your business game.Welcome to the Franchise Founders Podcast. We are on a mission to help aspiring entrepreneurs just like you take action through franchise ownership allowing you to obtain more financial freedom, time with family, and ultimately, a business that can run on its own without you.Dan Claps has co-founded several franchise development firms and currently runs Franchise Playbook. Christian Dadulak is a successful Franchise Consultant and runs his independent Franchise Consulting business, Real Franchising. Franchise Founders is a huge supporter of the International Franchise Association (IFA). If you are a fan of franchising and have an interest in joining the franchise community, the IFA is a great place to start! Learn more here: https://www.franchise.org/about-us

May 10, 2023 • 49min
The Resilience of Franchise Brands: Overcoming Covid-19 and Beyond - Dan Claps, Christian Dadulak
In this episode of The Franchise Founders Podcast, co-host Dan Claps talks to Ben Woodruff in a dynamic discussion about their experiences and insights in the franchising industry. Ben is the co-CEO of Woops! Macarons & Gifting, and sjares Dan's background as franchise professionals and entrepreneurs based in New York City. Throughout the episode, they delve into a range of topics, including valuable lessons learned along their respective journeys, navigating the challenges brought about by COVID-19, and the intricacies of franchise development and operations.Ben's extensive background in franchising is highlighted, starting with his beginnings in lead generation and subsequently establishing his own successful lead generation consultancy. Eventually, he assumed the role of CEO at a former client's company. The conversation delves into the qualities that define an exceptional development director, strategies for overcoming brand challenges arising from the pandemic, addressing closures, and effectively communicating with potential candidates about the brand's resilience. The episode offers an engaging and informative exploration of franchise development, packed with enjoyable and insightful anecdotes.Welcome to the Franchise Founders Podcast. We are on a mission to help aspiring entrepreneurs just like you take action through franchise ownership allowing you to obtain more financial freedom, time with family, and ultimately, a business that can run on its own without you.Dan Claps has co-founded several franchise development firms and currently runs Franchise Playbook. Christian Dadulak is a successful Franchise Consultant and runs his independent Franchise Consulting business, Real Franchising. Franchise Founders is a huge supporter of the International Franchise Association (IFA). If you are a fan of franchising and have an interest in joining the franchise community, the IFA is a great place to start! Learn more here: https://www.franchise.org/about-us

5 snips
May 3, 2023 • 52min
Navigating the World of Franchising: Insights from a Veteran Attorney - Dan Claps, Christian Dadulak
In this episode, Dan Claps speaks with Tom Spadea, a franchise attorney who has been in franchising for over 20 years. The conversation delves into Spadea's background in the industry, starting as a franchise consultant and later moving into franchising as the head of franchising, head of real estate and development at Rita's Italian Ice.The interview also discusses Spadea's journey through law school at night, his experience with franchising, and the founding of his law firm with his best friend from high school. While they initially started by mostly representing franchisees, their business has grown over time to mostly representing franchisors, focusing on the regulatory work such as writing the FDDs, the state reg, and other legal aspects that franchisors need to navigate. The interview is informative and insightful for anyone interested in franchising or business law.Welcome to the Franchise Founders Podcast. We are on a mission to help aspiring entrepreneurs just like you take action through franchise ownership allowing you to obtain more financial freedom, time with family, and ultimately, a business that can run on its own without you.Dan Claps has co-founded several franchise development firms and currently runs Franchise Playbook. Christian Dadulak is a successful Franchise Consultant and runs his independent Franchise Consulting business, Real Franchising. Franchise Founders is a huge supporter of the International Franchise Association (IFA). If you are a fan of franchising and have an interest in joining the franchise community, the IFA is a great place to start! Learn more here: https://www.franchise.org/about-us

Apr 28, 2023 • 40min
Creating A Winning Franchise - Dan Claps, Christian Dadulak
In this episode of The Franchise Founders Podcast, host Dan Claps shares his experience of starting a new business with his audience. What made him choose home services, and particularly restoration? What are the average ticket prices for businesses in his market? What do he and his team expect for the future of VODA Cleaning and Restoration? This episode offers valuable insights and practical tips for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners.Welcome to the Franchise Founders Podcast. We are on a mission to help aspiring entrepreneurs just like you take action through franchise ownership allowing you to obtain more financial freedom, time with family, and ultimately, a business that can run on its own without you.Dan Claps has co-founded several franchise development firms and currently runs Franchise Playbook. Christian Dadulak is a successful Franchise Consultant and runs his independent Franchise Consulting business, Real Franchising. Franchise Founders is a huge supporter of the International Franchise Association (IFA). If you are a fan of franchising and have an interest in joining the franchise community, the IFA is a great place to start! Learn more here: https://www.franchise.org/about-us

Apr 26, 2023 • 44min
A Lead Generation Company That Does Restoration - Dan Claps, Christian Dadulak
Dan has a fireside chat with the whole executive team of VODA Cleaning & Restoration. Welcome to the Franchise Founders Podcast. We are on a mission to help aspiring entrepreneurs just like you take action through franchise ownership allowing you to obtain more financial freedom, time with family, and ultimately, a business that can run on its own without you.Dan Claps has co-founded several franchise development firms and currently runs Franchise Playbook. Christian Dadulak is a successful Franchise Consultant and runs his independent Franchise Consulting business, Real Franchising. Franchise Founders is a huge supporter of the International Franchise Association (IFA). If you are a fan of franchising and have an interest in joining the franchise community, the IFA is a great place to start! Learn more here: https://www.franchise.org/about-us

Apr 24, 2023 • 51min
Creating A Brand That Appeals To Every Generation - Dan Claps, Christian Dadulak
In this episode of The Franchise Founders Podcast, host Dan Claps chats with Thomas Scott, an entrepreneur who has personally played an instrumental role in teaching and mentoring Dan about home services, running a home service franchisor, and how to build a personal brand better. Thomas is an absolutely brilliant leader in that space. He's been in franchising for decades and has a tremendous background in lead generation and franchise development websites. They'll get into all kinds of topics from how to build a personal brand and why it's important as a franchise developer. They'll get into how to reach and sell to different generations, from Baby boomers and Gen X to Millennials, and Gen Z. They discuss how each generation has different buying patterns based on where they are, how they were raised, and how they think. They get into breaking down each factor and how to target and satisfy each one. Thomas shares what new business owners should be focusing on personally and in regards to personal brand as a development director in 2023 and beyond. Jump right in and give this episode a listen! Welcome to the Franchise Founders Podcast. We are on a mission to help aspiring entrepreneurs just like you take action through franchise ownership allowing you to obtain more financial freedom, time with family, and ultimately, a business that can run on its own without you.Dan Claps has co-founded several franchise development firms and currently runs Franchise Playbook. Christian Dadulak is a successful Franchise Consultant and runs his independent Franchise Consulting business, Real Franchising. Franchise Founders is a huge supporter of the International Franchise Association (IFA). If you are a fan of franchising and have an interest in joining the franchise community, the IFA is a great place to start! Learn more here: https://www.franchise.org/about-us

Apr 19, 2023 • 49min
Fireside Chat: Dan & COO Talk About Building A New Brand - Dan Claps, Christian Dadulak
In the latest episode of The Franchise Founders Podcast, host Dan Claps sits down with Zach Nolte to discuss their journey in building a new brand with the launch of their new franchise, VODA cleaning and restoration. They talk about the ever-growing home services industry and benefits of selecting a widely untapped market. They share what goes into growing a brand before a single franchisee buys into the business. This episode offers a wealth of insights into the world of franchising and entrepreneurship, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in starting a franchise business or building a successful brand.Welcome to the Franchise Founders Podcast. We are on a mission to help aspiring entrepreneurs just like you take action through franchise ownership allowing you to obtain more financial freedom, time with family, and ultimately, a business that can run on its own without you.Dan Claps has co-founded several franchise development firms and currently runs Franchise Playbook. Christian Dadulak is a successful Franchise Consultant and runs his independent Franchise Consulting business, Real Franchising. Franchise Founders is a huge supporter of the International Franchise Association (IFA). If you are a fan of franchising and have an interest in joining the franchise community, the IFA is a great place to start! Learn more here: https://www.franchise.org/about-us