The Art of Franchise Marketing

In this conversation, Erin Martin interviews Ashley Gundlach, the president of British Swim School, discussing her background in marketing and the initiatives the brand is undertaking for the year. They delve into the importance of conversion rate optimization, lead nurturing strategies, and how British Swim School differentiates itself in a competitive market. The conversation highlights the significance of data-driven decisions, the evolving landscape of customer engagement, and the brand's commitment to child safety and development.In this conversation, Erin Martin and Ashley Gundlach explore the intersection of data analytics and marketing strategies within the franchise model. They discuss the importance of understanding data, balancing operational tasks with analytical insights, and the integration of various marketing tools to enhance customer engagement. The conversation also touches on the resurgence of traditional marketing methods and the innovative use of AI to improve customer interactions and streamline processes.

In this episode, Franchise Marketing Coordinator Leah Pinkes of ohDEER reveals the secrets behind building a strong, authentic social media presence. Leah discusses the importance of trial and error in content strategy, why relatable and unscripted moments—like dogs playing in the backyard—outperform curated ads, and how empowering franchisees to share their own stories creates genuine community engagement. Learn how ohDEER's mission of helping families enjoy more time outside translates into social content that resonates emotionally and drives loyalty. Whether you’re a franchise owner or a marketer, discover actionable tips for making your organic social media content impactful and memorable.

In the Art of Franchise Marketing podcast episode, Erin Martin interviews Laura Rice, CMO of Huffman Family Brands. They discuss the marketing strategies behind the Celebree School brand and its franchise growth. Laura shares insights on the importance of community connections, the newly launched brand fund, and how data and AI tools are being utilized to enhance marketing efforts and customer experience. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities in franchise marketing, emphasizing collaboration among franchisees and the significance of grassroots marketing. In this conversation, Erin Martin and Laura Rice delve into the transformative role of AI in customer insights, the importance of strategic meetings for team collaboration, and the metrics that define performance in franchise development.

In this episode of the Art of Franchise Marketing podcast, Erin Martin interviews James Doyle, CMO of  Pirtek USA, discussing his extensive experience in franchising, particularly in the service industry. They explore the importance of being findable in emergency services, the strategies for enhancing digital presence, and the value of customer reviews. The conversation emphasizes the significance of focusing on foundational marketing strategies and building strong relationships with franchise owners. In this conversation, James Doyle discusses various aspects of marketing, particularly in the B2B sector. He emphasizes the importance of customer engagement through multiple review methods, understanding customer needs, and the differences between B2B and B2C marketing strategies. 

In this episode of The Art of Franchise Marketing, Erin Martin chats with Cassie Gato, VP of Marketing at K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel, about the unique challenges and opportunities in pet care marketing.Gato shares how K9 Resorts is streamlining franchisee marketing with turnkey systems and influencer collaborations. She highlights their shift from manual content distribution to automation, easing the load on franchise owners while ensuring brand consistency.The conversation explores the power of grassroots marketing, the balance between corporate messaging and local storytelling, and how K9 Resorts equips franchisees with tools for success. Whether you're in pet care or another service industry, this episode offers actionable insights on blending digital strategies with community-driven marketing to build trust and drive growth.

In this episode of The Art of Franchise Marketing, we dive into an insightful conversation with Brooke Janousek, CMO of Garage Experts. Brooke shares her transition into her new role and provides valuable insights into key marketing initiatives driving the company forward. She discusses the power of data-driven decision-making, integrating new CRM systems, and innovative applications of AI in competitive analysis. Brooke also emphasizes the importance of consumer research in shaping brand perception and the critical role product quality plays in marketing success. This episode is packed with valuable takeaways for franchise marketers, including how AI is transforming business outcomes and the growing importance of personal branding in franchise development.

In this episode, we sit down with David Smith, VP of Digital Marketing at GoMinis Franchising, to explore how data transforms franchise marketing. With 114 locations under his leadership, David shares how GoMinis is shifting away from traditional cost-per-lead metrics to focus on true ROI. He discusses the power of integrating sales and marketing data, the role of regional insights, and how franchisees can use data to make smarter, more strategic decisions.We also dive into the biggest marketing challenges franchisees face and how to overcome them. David explains why reframing the conversation from cost-per-lead to ROI is critical for long-term success and how GoMinis uses API integrations and BI tools to track performance more effectively.

In this episode of The Art of Franchise Marketing, Katherine LeBlanc, Chief Marketing Officer at 4Ever Young Anti-Aging Solutions, shares her expertise on balancing long-term brand development with immediate results from transactional media. Drawing from her experience with brands like Smoothie King, Painting with a Twist, and Color Me Mine, Katherine explains how focusing on systems, integrations, and guest experience can drive impactful marketing outcomes.Katherine also discusses how data, creative strategies, and customer experience work together to create a winning formula for brands looking to grow sustainably while delivering short-term results.

In this episode of The Art of Franchise Marketing, host Erin Martin sits down with Burke Cuny, EVP of Alliance Franchise Brands, to discuss the complexities of leading marketing for a portfolio of more than 600 franchise locations across North America. Burke shares his journey from overseeing a single division to managing both sign and print brands, offering insights into restructuring teams, merging brands, and optimizing marketing operations.The conversation explores key topics such as:The shift from a generalist marketing approach to a specialized internal agency modelBalancing internal capabilities with external agency supportThe debate between a "house of brands" vs. "branded house" marketing strategyThe resurgence of print and direct mail in a digital-first worldThe power of integrated tech stacks and digital attribution in franchise growthBurke reflects on his early career at Domino’s, where franchisee insights helped drive innovation, menu expansion, and a game-changing rebrand. Tune in for expert perspectives on structuring franchise marketing teams for long-term success.

In this episode, Hagan Kappler, CEO and Founder of Daisy, discusses how her company has embraced creative marketing strategies to engage customers and drive growth. She also discusses the importance of pivoting when necessary and using influencer partnerships, CRM systems, and immersive experiences to build strong customer relationships. Hagan also explores how ongoing feedback, personalized service, and cross-industry collaborations shape Daisy’s future and increase customer lifetime value.