

Franchise Secrets Podcast
Erik Van Horn
Franchising specialist Erik Van Horn reveals the secrets he uses as a franchisee, consultant, investor and entrepreneur. Join us every Tuesday to learn tactical and practical tools that will help you buy, grow, and sell franchises like an expert.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 13, 2024 • 50min
Are Rapidly Expanding Franchises Built to Last? With Edith Wiseman of FRANdata
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/

Aug 6, 2024 • 45min
Maximizing Profits, Minimizing Headaches: Hello Sugar's Franchise Model With Brigham Dallas
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/

Jul 30, 2024 • 24min
From Operator to Investor: Franchise Expert Reveals His Path to Passive Investing
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/

Jul 23, 2024 • 19min
Why Franchises Fail And Others Flourish
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/

Jul 16, 2024 • 36min
Franchise Brokers: When and How to Work With Them With Jeff Herr
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/

Jul 9, 2024 • 39min
The Blueprint for Growing and Building Wealth With The Lifestyle Investor Justin Donald
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/

Jul 2, 2024 • 50min
The Winning Approach to Building a Successful Brand With Jim Bitticks of Dave's Hot Chicken
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/

Jun 25, 2024 • 54min
What the Wealthiest Families Do With Their Money With Jim Dew
Have you ever wondered how the rich make more money? In this insightful episode, Erik Van Horn and Jim Dew discuss wealth creation and management. Whether you're a beginner investor or a seasoned pro, you'll find valuable strategies to elevate your financial game. Discover how Dew Wealth Management distinguishes itself from other financial firms, offering a unique approach to building and managing wealth. Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr Jim Dew is the CEO of Dew Wealth Management and the creator of The Entrepreneur's Virtual Family Office®, an innovative and strategic approach designed to maximize time, money, and freedom. He has 27 years of experience building high-functioning wealth management teams for entrepreneurs. Jim is a Certified Financial Planner®, Chartered Financial Consultant®, and a Certified Private Wealth Advisor®. He has been featured in Inc. Entrepreneur and Huffington Post magazines. Jim is also a sought-after speaker for stages and podcasts for elite entrepreneurs. Tune in to Jim's practical advice on making smart investments, understanding risks, and collaborating with fund managers. Find out how to leverage the Augusta Rule and other strategies to grow your financial storehouse. “Buy appreciating assets, things that are gonna grow your wealth over time, things that are gonna outpace inflation—which has been a struggle and a problem in the last few years. And just start now.” - Jim Dew In This Episode: - A brief background about Jim and how he became an entrepreneur - How Dew Wealth runs its business compared to other financial companies - Building your financial team the way billionaires do (financial flat tire vs functional wealth wheel) - What is the Augusta Rule? - How to take a break from your business and not worry about anything - Why are entrepreneurs good at making money but bad at keeping it? - How to start making smart investments - Understanding investment risks - Working with fund managers and venture capitalists 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 Augusta Rule Tax Guide - https://www.dewwealth.com/franchise 🌐 Book Your Strategy Session Now - https://lifestyleinvestor.com/strategy/ Connect with Jim Dew: 💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-dew-0ab03a5/ 🌐 Website - https://www.dewwealth.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/

Jun 18, 2024 • 37min
How an EBITDA-Focused Franchisee Scaled From 1 to 100+ Units With Raj Patel
Is investing in the food industry a wise move? Does owning multiple locations guarantee profitability? In today's episode of Franchise Secrets, Erik and his guest, Raj Patel, tackle these crucial questions and more. They explore the intricacies of the food industry, highlighting the significance of unit economics and how franchisors can support their franchisees in achieving success. Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr Raj Patel, the President of The Hari Group, knew early on that the corporate desk wasn't for him. Co-founding The Hari Group, Raj dedicated himself to transforming his community by opening new restaurants and spearheading real estate development projects. His efforts have not gone unnoticed—Raj was named Dealmaker of the Year by Franchise Times and recognized as a Young Leader to Watch by QSR Magazine. Serving on the Board Advisory Committee for Dunkin’ and other subcommittees, Raj owns nearly a hundred locations across brands like Dunkin' and Dave's Hot Chicken. Ready to uncover the secrets to thriving in the competitive restaurant industry? Join us as we reveal the strategies that turn challenges into profitable opportunities, featuring insights from a franchise profitability expert. “We don't want to open a location just to open a location. If we're going to open a location, it's got to make money financially.” - Raj Patel In This Episode: - How Raj and his family got involved in franchising - Balancing the number of locations with profitability - Exit strategy and using the money to accelerate your growth - Identifying your superpowers and hiring top talent - How brands help their franchisees with unit economics - Things to consider when choosing a brand to invest in - Pros and cons of investing in the food industry 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 Raj Patel: 💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajpatel22 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/

Jun 11, 2024 • 43min
What is Franchise Discovery Day? With Jeff Herr
Discovery days, also referred to as “Meet The Team Day” or “Decision Day,” have been a marketing tool for franchisors for many years, and for some franchisors, they are the most crucial element in closing the sale. Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr What exactly happens during this event? If you're a candidate, what can you expect? Who should join this event? When is the best time to hold a discovery day? In this episode, Erik and his business partner, Jeff Herr, discuss why this event is a critical success factor in business partnerships. As Erik and Jeff share their experiences as advisors and partners to different brands, you will gain valuable insight from these two industry experts. Whether you're a franchisor or a potential franchisee, this conversation will give you The Discovery Day Blueprint and show you how to take advantage of this significant day. “When you're a franchisor, every decision you make has to be for the betterment of the brand.” - Jeff Herr In This Episode: - What is franchise discovery day? - What should franchisors and franchisees be doing during discovery day? - Who should join the discovery process? - What decisions must a franchisor make? - What happens during the actual event? - How do you structure the event? - What must a brand do if a candidate delays making a decision? 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/