
The Art of Franchise Marketing
The Art of Franchise Marketing takes a deep dive into the franchise space and explores how the biggest and best brands handle national branding, franchise development, employee recruitment, and localized marketing on a daily basis. Netsertive talks shop with franchise executives to discuss what’s working, what’s not, and answers the question - what else can you be doing to excel at The Art of Franchise Marketing.
Latest episodes

Jul 15, 2025 • 28min
Connecting with Customers in the Age of AI with Heather Anderson
In this episode of the Art of Franchise Marketing podcast, Erin Martin speaks with Heather Anderson, VP of Marketing for Streamline Brands. They discuss Heather's extensive experience in franchise marketing, the impact of brand acquisition on marketing strategies, and the importance of understanding customer expectations in a rapidly changing landscape. Heather shares insights from customer research that informed their communication strategies, including the launch of the Safer Swimmer Promise. They also explore the role of AI in marketing, the significance of grassroots marketing, and the need for seamless customer experiences. The conversation highlights the unique offerings of Streamline Brands and their commitment to building safer, more confident swimmers.

Jul 8, 2025 • 42min
Leading with Strategy: Marketing for Multi-Brand Franchise Success with Kenneth Schweighofer
In this episode of the Art of Franchise Marketing podcast, Erin Martin interviews Kenneth Schweighofer, CMO of Authority Brands. Kenneth shares his extensive background in marketing, transitioning from CPG to franchising, and discusses the importance of focusing on franchisee growth for long-term success. He emphasizes the need for effective brand planning, collaboration between marketing and operations, and the significance of data-driven decision-making in optimizing marketing strategies. Kenneth also highlights the challenges of managing multiple vendors and the importance of building strong relationships to drive performance.

Jul 1, 2025 • 32min
Marketing Strategies for Rapid Franchise Growth with Lindsey McFadden
In this episode of the Art of Franchise Marketing, Erin Martin speaks with Lindsey McFadden, CMO of StretchZone, about the rapid growth of the franchise, which opened 250 locations in just three years. They discuss the strategies used to scale marketing effectively, the importance of educating consumers about stretching, and how data-driven insights can inform business decisions. Lindsey emphasizes the need for a strong referral marketing strategy and the role of authenticity in marketing efforts. The conversation also touches on the significance of empowering staff and maintaining brand standards while allowing flexibility for local adaptations.

Jun 25, 2025 • 34min
The Power of Centralized Support in Franchise Marketing with Richie Huffman
In this episode of the Art of Franchise Marketing podcast, Erin Martin interviews Richie Huffman, CEO of Huffman Family of Brands. They discuss Richie's journey in the preschool industry, the evolution of his brand, and the strategic growth through franchising. Richie shares insights on marketing strategies, core values that drive the organization, and the importance of supporting franchise partners to ensure mutual success. The conversation highlights the brand's philanthropic efforts and its commitment to nurturing both children and franchise partners alike. In this conversation, Erin Martin and Richie Huffman discuss the dynamics of franchise marketing, emphasizing the importance of centralized support, data-driven decision-making, and building strong relationships with franchise partners. They explore strategies for enrollment, the path to profitability, and the role of AI in enhancing business operations. Huffman shares insights on how to effectively coach franchisees and the significance of having a clean data foundation to leverage technology effectively.

Jun 10, 2025 • 32min
Modern Leadership: Empathy, Data, and Growth with Felicia Reeves
In this episode, Felicia Reeves, CMO of Empower Brands, shares her insights on transitioning into a new leadership role, the importance of building trust and empathy, and simplifying marketing for franchisees. She emphasizes the significance of data in marketing, connecting marketing efforts to business impact, and fostering curiosity within teams. Felicia also discusses the role of authenticity in thought leadership and the challenges of harnessing data across multiple brands. Additionally, she touches on the potential of AI in marketing and the importance of consistency in personal branding.

Jun 2, 2025 • 35min
The Brand Value Equation: Strategy, Experience, and Loyalty with Doug Zarkin
In this episode, Erin Martin interviews Doug Zarkin, Chief Brand Officer of Modern Performance and Recovery Brands and author of 'Moving Your Brand Out of the Friend Zone.' They discuss Doug's extensive career in marketing, with a focus on brand transformation, particularly at Pearl Vision. Doug shares insights on the importance of understanding customer experience, the brand value equation, and the cultural permission needed for innovation. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of brand love and the role of AI in marketing strategies.

May 27, 2025 • 28min
Building Brand Identity & Driving Franchise Growth: Marketing Strategies with Bre Boote
In this conversation, Erin Martin interviews Bre Boote, the Senior Director of Marketing and Communications at Slick City Action Park, the first waterless slide park. They discuss the origins of Slick City, the importance of brand identity, and the strategies for growth and franchising. Bree shares insights on marketing differentiators, the role of video content, and the significance of user-generated content. They also discuss future initiatives, including the integration of AI in marketing and the importance of continuous learning and innovation within the industry.

May 20, 2025 • 32min
Operational Excellence Meets Customer Experience with Stephanie Knepp
In this episode of the Art of Franchise Marketing podcast, Erin Martin speaks with Stephanie Knepp, CEO of Sit Still Kids Salon. They discuss the unique approach of Sit Still in providing a comprehensive customer experience that goes beyond haircuts for kids. Stephanie shares insights on building customer loyalty, effective marketing strategies, and the integration of technology in enhancing customer engagement. The conversation also delves into the importance of operational excellence in marketing success and the future growth plans for Sit Still Kids Salon.

May 13, 2025 • 37min
Marketing That Moves: Blending AI, Data & Brand Strategy with Amy Cantwell
In this episode of the Art of Franchise Marketing podcast, Erin Martin speaks with Amy Cantwell, VP of Marketing at Re-Bath Corporation. They discuss Amy's extensive background in marketing, the opportunities she sees in franchising, particularly with AI and data utilization, and the importance of building a data-driven marketing culture. Amy shares insights on navigating data security in the age of AI, offers advice for franchise marketers, and reflects on her entrepreneurial experience with a winery, emphasizing the importance of understanding business outcomes in marketing. In this conversation, Amy Cantwell discusses various marketing strategies, focusing on influencer marketing, brand campaigns, and the importance of emotional connections in creative advertising. The discussion also touches on the long-term benefits of brand awareness and the need for candid communication in team dynamics.

May 6, 2025 • 37min
Winning the Customer: From Sports to Franchise Marketing with Lou Imbriano
In this episode of the Art of Franchise Marketing Podcast, host Erin Martin speaks with Lou Imbriano, a seasoned marketer with experience in sports and franchise marketing. Lou shares insights from his time as the Chief Marketing Officer for the New England Patriots, discussing how he transformed a transactional marketing approach into a relationship-oriented strategy that significantly increased revenue. He emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs, leveraging data, and creating memorable experiences to foster loyalty. Lou also highlights the necessity of integrating sales and marketing efforts and the value of building strong customer relationships to drive referrals and business growth.