Franchise Secrets Podcast

Should franchisees manage their own social media accounts, or is it best left to the franchisor? The answer could make or break your brand's online presence.   Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr   In this episode, Erik Van Horn welcomes Brynn Gibbs, Founder and CEO of Consumer Fusion, to discuss the pros and cons of social media for franchisors and franchisees. Brynn, an expert in online reputation management, shares her insights on whether franchisees should run their social media pages or let the franchisor take control. They explore how businesses can leverage social media for brand consistency and customer engagement while avoiding common pitfalls. Brynn also reveals a game-changing strategy and offers a fresh perspective on social media management in the franchising world. With over a decade of experience in reputation management, Brynn has helped countless brands protect and grow their online presence.    If you are involved in franchising or any business and you want to use the power of social media to expand your reach, don’t miss this essential episode!   “With Google Gemini and this generative AI, Google search is changing. Now more than ever, double down on reviews. Google doesn't just look at your old reviews, the review volume, and the content of those old reviews. They're looking at new reviews, new content, and the quality of those new reviews.” ~ Brynn Gibbs   In This Episode: - Who is Brynn Gibbs? - Social media guidelines for franchisors vs. franchisees - Steps to take if franchisees control social media accounts - Pros and cons of franchisee-managed social media - Benefits of franchisor-owned social media accounts - Shared access: Franchisor oversight with local franchisee posts - Should franchisors post branded content on franchisee accounts? - Analyzing top-performing social media posts - How franchisees can create local content - Best local influencers for franchisees - Key insights on Google Business Profile - The importance of Google reviews - Structuring webinars for maximum impact   Resources:  🌐 Consult with Erik - https://form.jotform.com/222685728939070 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617    🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617  🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses https://scalablefranchise.com/ 🌐 Day Trading Attention by Gary Vaynerchuk - https://garyvaynerchuk.com/attention/   Connect with Brynn Gibbs: 🌐 Website - https://www.consumerfusion.com/ 💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brynn-gibbs-590276199/   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/ 

What happens when your business hits a rough patch, and your franchisees are anything but happy? Discover why having a second-in-command can make or break your company’s future.   Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr   In this powerful episode, Erik Van Horn sits down with Cameron Herold, the strategic mastermind who has fueled the growth of companies like 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, Sprint Telecom, and even the monarchy of Qatar. Cameron’s impressive track record speaks for itself: by age 21, he had 14 employees, and by 35, he had helped build two companies valued at $100 million each. As COO of 1-800-GOT-JUNK? he skyrocketed the company from $2 million to $106 million in revenue in just six years, expanding the workforce to 3,100.   But this episode isn’t just about numbers. Cameron reveals a story he's never shared publicly before—how he turned around a group of unhappy franchisees and the crucial lessons he learned as a second-in-command. With insights from his experience and best-selling books, including The Second in Command and Vivid Vision®, Cameron explains why every CEO needs a strong right-hand leader to drive success.   Whether you're a business owner or an aspiring leader, this episode offers valuable lessons on leadership, growth, and the power of having a second-in-command.   “Don't learn from mistakes. Learn from the people before you who have already figured it out. My R&D stands for “Rip-off and Duplicate”--I just do what the best people are doing.” ~ Cameron Herold   In This Episode: - Who needs a second-in-command? - Cameron’s journey from COO to “The CEO Whisperer” - The six stages of franchise relationships - A valuable, rarely shared story from Cameron - The power of language in franchise partnerships - Keys to achieving massive business success - Turning unhappy franchisees into loyal partners - When to hire a COO and essential qualities to look for - Handling an employee who is not fit for the role - Defining your entrepreneurial vision and purpose   Resources:  🌐 Consult with Erik - https://form.jotform.com/222685728939070 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617    🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617  🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses https://scalablefranchise.com/ 🌐 The Six Stages of Franchise Relationships (The Franchise E-Factor) by Greg Nathan - https://www.franchiserelationships.com/shop/the-franchise-e-factor/ 🌐 Giftology by John Ruhlin - https://www.amazon.com/Giftology-Increase-Referrals-Strengthen-Retention/dp/1619614332   Connect with Cameron Herold: 🌐 Website - https://cooalliance.com/ and https://cameronherold.com/   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/ 

Are you a franchise brand tired of wasting time on trial and error? In this episode, Erik Van Horn sits down with Brooke Budke of Momentum Brands to reveal powerful strategies for customer acquisition, lead magnets that convert, and everything you need to fast-track your franchise growth.   Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr   Why should you listen to Brooke? As one of the top eight female CMOs in franchising and a former brand president, she’s a true marketing powerhouse. With over a decade of franchise marketing expertise, Brooke’s strategies are designed to cut through the noise and deliver results. Her innovative approach and positive, growth-focused mindset have propelled countless brands to new heights of success.   This episode is packed with actionable insights to elevate your franchise marketing and drive profitability. Don’t miss your chance to learn from one of the best in the business and transform your franchise’s future!   Catch the previous episode with Brooke: The Grand Opening Playbook: Steps to a Successful Launch With Brooke Budke “Repetition is the reason why brands grow because what you recognize gets repeated. And if you recognize certain behaviors every single month, the franchisees will repeat that.” - Brooke Budke   In This Episode: - Brooke’s top tip that's guaranteed to deliver results - How to subscribe to Brooke’s newsletter and why it’s a game-changer - The must-have tool: Why every brand needs a newsletter - Your email list: The asset more valuable than social media - Should franchisors build a big list or empower franchisees to grow their own? - Good vs. bad lead magnets in franchise development - Effective lead magnets for grand openings - Brooke’s latest lead magnet    Resources:  🌐 Consult with Erik - https://form.jotform.com/222685728939070 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617    🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617  🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses https://scalablefranchise.com/   Connect with Brooke Budke: 🌐 Website - https://www.themomentumbrands.com/ 🌐Subscribe to Brooke's Newsletter - https://momentum-brands.myflodesk.com/thesauce   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/ 

How do you know if a franchise brand is as good as it claims to be? Dive into this episode to uncover the truth from an industry insider!   Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr   Join Erik Van Horn as he sits down with Edith Wiseman, President of FRANdata, to explore the latest trends in franchising. With over 30 years of experience, FRANdata is renowned for its comprehensive franchise market research and analysis. Edith shares valuable insights on two distinct growth models for franchisors and discusses which industries benefit most from hands-on franchisees.   In this episode, you'll discover industry trends and insights to help you make better business decisions. Edith also tackles the burning question: Is fast growth sustainable?   This episode is a goldmine for franchisors, aspiring franchisees, and anyone interested in franchising. Don’t miss Erik and Edith’s expert advice for emerging brands and new franchisees.   Tune in now to unlock the secrets of successful franchising and take your franchise journey to the next level!   “I think these brands with large operators are going back to the owner-operator model because they understand that in order to win in this very competitive environment, you need to have very crisp operations that are very close to the customer.” - Edith Wiseman   In This Episode: - Background on Edith Wiseman and FRANdata - Two growth models for franchisors - Industries benefiting from hands-on franchisees - Scaling franchisees to independence - The appeal of larger territories - Sustainability of fast growth - Advice for emerging brands - Expert tips for new franchisees   Resources:  🌐 Consult with Erik - https://form.jotform.com/222685728939070 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617    🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617  🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses https://scalablefranchise.com/   Connect with Edith Wiseman: 🌐 Website - https://frandata.com/   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/   

Are you dreaming of running a profitable franchise with fewer headaches? Tune in to this episode as Erik chats with Brigham Dallas, founder and CEO of Hello Sugar Waxing Salon. Brigham shares how Hello Sugar has redefined the retail landscape and positioned itself as a leader in the rapidly growing hair removal industry.   Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr    Hello Sugar stands out with its unique sugar waxing technique and unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service. With consumer demand for safe, effective, and convenient hair removal solutions on the rise, Hello Sugar is poised for continued success.    Learn about the comprehensive strategies that drive Hello Sugar's success and how the brand supports its franchisees to thrive. Discover the unique advantages of investing in Hello Sugar and why it could be the perfect fit for your franchise aspirations.   “Of the hundred dollars that comes into the franchisee, how much revenue capture happens at the franchisor level? And really, we want that to be as high as possible, not just for franchisors but for franchisees. Because my thing is, I do not ask for anything from a franchisee unless it's making them more money to deal with us than to do it elsewhere.” - Brigham Dallas   In This Episode: - Brigham's journey to founding Hello Sugar - What sets Brigham and Hello Sugar apart? - Leveraging AI for business growth - Hello Sugar's top 3 services and the most profitable model - Key considerations for franchisors - Marketing strategies to boost franchisee revenue - Unique aspects of Hello Sugar's marketing approach   Resources:  🌐 Consult with Erik - https://form.jotform.com/222685728939070 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617    🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617  🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses https://scalablefranchise.com/   Connect with Brigham Dallas: 🌐 Website - https://franchise.hellosugar.salon/   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/

Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr    Are you ready to unlock the secrets of a thriving franchising career? Join Erik Van Horn as he takes you on a captivating journey through his 20-year experience in the world of franchising.   In this solo episode, Erik shares his remarkable journey across four franchises, spanning various industries, regions, and career stages. He opens up about his path from an active operator to a passive investor, revealing the strategies he used to level up in each franchise organization. Learn from his mistakes, understand the valuable lessons he gained, and discover how he navigated the complexities of franchising.   Erik's story is a treasure trove of insights for aspiring and seasoned franchisees. If you're ready to take your franchising career to the next level, don't miss this chance to learn from a true franchising expert!   “What I had learned about the passive investor model in franchising is that it is not, I repeat, it is not the brand. It's the people. The right partner in the right seats; them hiring the right people, putting them in the right seats.” - Erik Van Horn   In This Episode: - Strategic hiring for growth - Building credibility with local experts - Partnering with top brands - Understanding the business and hiring an exceptional manager - Erik’s passive investor franchise model - Key takeaway from today's episode   Resources:  🌐 Consult with Erik - https://form.jotform.com/222685728939070 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617    🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617  🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses https://scalablefranchise.com/   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/

Ever wondered why some franchises skyrocket to success while others fade into oblivion? In this eye-opening solo episode, Erik Van Horn delves into his personal experiences with both winning and losing brands. He shares invaluable insights on what sets a flourishing franchise apart from one that struggles.    Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr    Erik’s journey reveals critical lessons for aspiring franchisees and seasoned entrepreneurs alike. What are the hidden pitfalls? What makes a brand resilient? Tune in to uncover the secrets behind franchise success and learn how to turn your investment into a thriving business.' Erik’s key takeaway? Understanding the commitment and effort required can make all the difference between success and failure. Don't miss out on this chance to gain expert knowledge and transform your franchise journey.   “The best way to learn is from other people's mistakes. I've done a lot of that, and I've made a lot of my own mistakes. And I love it when I talk to other people who lost significant amounts of money in franchising because they usually learn from those mistakes, just like I have.” - Erik Van Horn   In This Episode: - Unproven vs. proven business model - Working with a local manager vs. partnering with franchise owners - Are you spending your time putting out fires? - Negative vs. positive cash flow  - The importance of a grand opening - Semi-absentee vs. passive model   Resources:  🌐 Consult with Erik - https://form.jotform.com/222685728939070 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617    🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617  🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses https://scalablefranchise.com/   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/ 

With an increasing number of franchises entering the market every year, it can take a lot of work to thoroughly evaluate and compare all the opportunities available. Because of this, many investors are turning to franchise brokers or consultants to help them narrow the field and help them make the right decision. But how do you get brokers to notice your brand and consider working with you?   Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr    Join Erik Van Horn and Jeff Herr as they dive deep into the world of franchise brokerage. In this episode, you will discover the essential steps to make your brand irresistible to brokers and the critical requirements you must meet.   Are you ready to take your brand to the next level? Learn the secrets to attracting the right brokers and consultants in today's episode of Franchise Secrets!   “Sometimes, people tend to believe that brokers are only concerned about the commission. The ones concerned about commission are just not good brokers. The best brokers out there in the world genuinely want to help change people's lives and get them into business ownership.” - Jeff Herr   In This Episode: - Attracting brokers and consultants - Avoiding common pitfalls as an emerging brand - The necessity of a solid Item 19 - Building a reliable leadership and support team - Essential systems and tools for smooth operations - Evaluating broker fit - Finding top broker networks   Resources:  🌐 Consult with Erik - https://form.jotform.com/222685728939070 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617    🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617  🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses https://scalablefranchise.com/   Connect with Jeff Herr: 💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-herr-606b74a/ 🌐 Website - https://www.frontstreetep.com/   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/

For a limited time, Justin is offering a Free Strategy Session to our podcast listeners who would like to explore their options to become a Lifestyle Investor: https://lifestyleinvestor.com/strategy/?utm_campaign=pim-link-consultation-page   Do you want to be a billionaire? Most people would probably say yes without thinking twice. But today's guest gave a response that will surprise and inspire you, offering a fresh perspective on wealth and ambition.   Tune in to this riveting episode as host Erik Van Horn interviews Justin Donald, also known as The Lifestyle Investor. Dive deep into the secrets of asset allocation and discover the strategies that can transform your financial future.   Justin shares valuable insights on how and when to invest in deals, making it clear why everyday people should pay attention to the habits of the wealthy—because success leaves clues. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that could change the way you think about investing and financial freedom.   “Most of the wealthiest people in the world did not grow their money in the stock market. They made it in their business or a business–either they're the entrepreneur or the investor of that business.” - Justin Donald   In This Episode: - Do you want to be a billionaire? - Why chase riches at any cost? - What does financial independence mean to you? - Justin's advice for those always wanting more money - How the wealthiest families manage their wealth - Asset allocation trends of the wealthy - Why care about the ultra-rich? - Public vs private investments - Starting with alternative investments - How to decide if a deal is worth it   Resources:  🌐 Consult with Erik - https://form.jotform.com/222685728939070 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617    🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617  🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses https://scalablefranchise.com/ 🌐 Book Your Strategy Session with Justin Donald's Team - https://lifestyleinvestor.com/consultation 🌐 Register here for the Lifestyle Investor Foundations Summer Series - https://lifestyleinvestor.com/foundations   Connect with Justin Donald: 💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinwdonald/ 🌐 Website - https://lifestyleinvestor.com/ ☎️ Book your strategy session with Justin Donald’s team:  https://lifestyleinvestor.com/strategy/?utm_campaign=pim-link-consultation-page    Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/ 

Is the hot chicken business just a fad? Have you ever wondered why some brands dominate the market while others fade away quickly? Let's hear what today's guest has to say.   Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr    In this episode, Erik Van Horn and Jim Bitticks explore the dynamic world of franchising, shedding light on why franchisors and franchisees play pivotal roles in business growth. Jim, a seasoned COO and a Dave's Hot Chicken franchisee shares valuable insights on navigating the unique challenges of managing and owning a franchise within the same company.   Uncover how Jim's multifaceted role influences operational strategies while addressing potential conflicts of interest. Gain firsthand perspectives on maintaining harmony between corporate leadership and entrepreneurial ventures.   Join us to uncover the strategies driving Dave's Hot Chicken's expansion and learn actionable tips for scaling your brand in today's competitive market.   “At Dave's, we are very, very focused on maintaining that excellent store-level economic model so that franchisees continue to be successful. That's why we've been able to grow really, really fast because the model is good, and we are very focused on keeping that model strong.” - Jim Bitticks   In This Episode: - Who is Jim Bitticks? - Jim's experience working at Blaze Pizza - Is the Hot Chicken category just a fad? - Dave's Hot Chicken brand story - What is it like being a franchisee-focused COO? - How does Jim balance being a COO and a franchisee? - What should franchisees know about being a franchisor? - How must franchisors deal with rebellious franchisees? - Lessons from successful multi-unit franchisees - What's the ideal mindset for a franchisee aiming to innovate in their market?   Resources:  🌐 Consult with Erik - https://form.jotform.com/222685728939070 🌐 Want to buy a franchise? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617    🌐 Want to franchise your business? Connect with Erik here - https://forms.gle/n4JedEuU5p7asE617  🌐 Franchisees and franchisors find proven tactics and strategies to scale YOUR businesses https://scalablefranchise.com/   Connect with Jim Bitticks: 💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-bitticks-cfe-0bb37515/ 🌐 Website - https://www.daveshotchicken.com/   Connect with Erik Van Horn: 🌐 Website - https://franchisesecrets.com/    📷 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/   👍 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erik.v.horn/   💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/evanhorn/