Franchise Secrets Podcast

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/

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/

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/

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/

Ever wondered how a lesson in leadership and perseverance can transform a business? Join us as Aaron Stokes, a 25-year veteran of the automotive repair industry and founder of Shop Fix Academy, reveals his journey from a challenging upbringing to building a thriving business empire. Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr Aaron shares the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including overcoming theft, financial stress, and debt. He discusses how pain can be a powerful catalyst for growth and the importance of mentors in his journey. Discover his insights on leadership, asset protection, investing, and business scaling, along with the vital roles of discipline, accountability, and effective communication. Tune in for actionable advice and inspiring stories every entrepreneur can learn from. Unlock the secrets to achieving business success today! "Perseverance is hanging on by your fingernails on a cliff for years—that's what perseverance is." - Aaron Stokes In This Episode: - Aaron's background - Facing financial challenges and learning from mistakes - Experiencing deep pain and transforming it into lessons - Discovering a new path and building a consulting company - The role of mentors and confidence in overcoming obstacles - The power of perseverance - Confidence as a critical ingredient to business success - Aaron's current status and next steps - Business, finance, and leadership lessons from Aaron 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 Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday - https://www.amazon.com/Obstacle-Way-Timeless-Turning-Triumph/dp/1591846358 Connect with Aaron Stokes: 💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-stokes-969012109/ 🌐 Website - https://shopfixacademy.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 founder struggling to scale your emerging brand? You're not alone. In this episode of the Franchise Secrets Podcast, host Erik Van Horn dives deep with goGLOW founder and CEO Melanie Richards, exploring the raw challenges and triumphs of growing a brand from zero franchisees to experiencing rocketship growth. Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr Mel highlights the indispensable role of a rockstar second in command and what it truly takes to support your franchisees beyond the spotlight. Discover the behind-the-scenes efforts that keep the franchise machine running smoothly and learn practical strategies to nurture and expand your franchise family. As a lifelong beauty enthusiast, Mel's sensitivity to women from all backgrounds and walks of life equipped her to flourish in the beauty world. When beauty school graduation rolled around, a celebratory trip to Mexico spurred a grand idea in her mind. In preparation for her vacation, Mel searched the area for the best spray tan at the most affordable price. She quickly realized there was a need for this type of service, so why not be the person to fill it? And that was the beginning of her exciting journey as a business owner. If you're ready to turn your vision into a thriving franchise, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to uncover the secrets of successful franchising and take your brand to new heights! "We're making sure that whoever walks on this ground that we are building, that it's solid and that they can count on it because it's a huge responsibility. You should take your responsibility of being a franchisor very seriously, and that's what I do." - Melanie Richards In This Episode: - Why is branding so crucial for Mel? - Why is it important for a founder to have a rockstar second in command? - What is it like to partner with Front Street Equity Partners and get support in the trenches? - What mindset must a founder have to drive revenue growth? - What contributed to goGLOW's rocketship growth? - What makes Mel nervous as she gears up for the next 12 months? - Are pop-up events helpful for the salon suite and beauty industry? - Mel's valuable advice for brands who want to franchise their business - How many hours did Mel work while building her business? 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 Melanie Richards: 💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-richards-a492207/ 🌐 Website - https://www.goglow.co/ 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/

Every entrepreneur has their formula for success. If you ask a dozen entrepreneurs their secret, many will say you must stand out from the competition. But today's guest has an unconventional secret to industry domination, so tune in to find out if you can apply the same secret to your business. Join Over 5,500 Franchisees and Franchisors in our FREE Private Facebook Community HERE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/franchisesecretsfb?_rdc=1&_rdr Tommy Mello, founder of A1 Garage Door Service, shares his insights on how he transformed his garage door company into a technology-driven business with over $25 million in EBITDA. He discusses why he chose not to franchise his business and the importance of continuous learning and personal growth. Tommy emphasizes the value of investing in the right people and creating a strong company culture. He also talks about his goal to achieve $108-110 million in EBITDA in three years and the importance of hiring the right team to help him get there. He believes in leveraging technology to automate processes and improve efficiency. Tommy discusses the shift in mindset from being a garage door company to a technology company and what accelerated this transformation. He also highlights the significance of knowing and analyzing key performance indicators (KPIs) to make informed business decisions. Tommy shares his philosophy of elevating the industry and helping competitors succeed through the Freedom Event, which focuses on personal and professional growth in the home services industry. Tommy's journey is a masterclass in innovation and leadership, so don't miss out on today's episode of Franchise Secrets. "If I'm gonna make this business worth a lot of money, I gotta elevate the whole industry. If I'm gonna charge the right prices, then I cannot be this lonesome wolf. I needed to invite people in." - Tommy Mello In This Episode: - Tommy's background and how he got to where he is today - Navigating the different seasons in life - Why Tommy did not franchise his business - How continuous learning and personal growth make all the difference - Hiring the right people to accelerate your growth - Elevating the industry by helping competitors succeed - Freedom Event: Fostering personal and professional growth in the home services industry - Choosing the right vendors and holding them accountable - The Key to Success: Embrace hard work and avoid procrastination 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/ 🌐 Tommy Mello's Freedom Event - https://get.homeservicefreedom.com/freedom-event-2024 🌐 Register for Your Next Shop Tour with Tommy Mello - https://get.homeservicefreedom.com/a1-shop-tour 🌐 Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell - https://www.buybackyourtime.com/ 🌐 Off Balance on Purpose by Dan Thurmon - https://danthurmon.com/books/off-balance-on-purpose/ 🌐 Who Not How by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy - https://www.amazon.com/Who-Not-How-Accelerating-Teamwork-ebook/dp/B0867ZJ151 🌐 Built to Last by Jim Collins and Jerry I. Porras - https://www.amazon.com/Built-Last-Successful-Visionary-Essentials/dp/0060516402 Connect with Tommy Mello: 💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommymello/ 🌐 Website - https://homeserviceexpert.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/