Thanking The Stars!

I'm grateful for an incredible year with 24 amazing podcast guests on the FranchiseMinute!

Thanks to each one of you for sharing your experience and insights about franchises. You did a super job of enlightening and growing our audience.

Here's to a New Year of ENTREPRENEURSHIP - franchise style!

As we step into 2024, know that being a franchise business owner can be an ideal way to CREATE WEALTH and REPLACE INCOME.

Be sure to tune in to the FRANCHISEMINUTE WEDNESDAYS at 11:30 a.m. EST each week on LinkedIn.  In 2024, we have an amazing lineup of FRANCHISE INSIDERS guest starring from TOP FRANCHISES!

My thanks to the 2023 @Franchise Minute Guest Stars :

@ChrisBrown with Clothes Bin Franchise
Kimberly Moreno with Shrunk 3D Inc.
Jacob Hanika with HorsePower Brands
Heather McPherson with 1-800-STRIPER
Anthony Spagnola with Mighty Dog Roofing and Stand Strong Fencing
Lori Tobia with Gotcha Covered Franchising
Turp Ricketts with Blingle!
Chip Baranowski, CFE with ComForCare and Boost Home Healthcare
Courtney Carter Reppert with Bumble Bee Blinds
Chris Fisher, CEO and Founder of Shine Franchise Group
Rick Mayo, CEO and Founder of Alloy Personal Training Franchise
Matt Cahill and Adam Cahill, CEO and Founders of SUPPLY POINTe
Bill Dowd, CEO and Founder of Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control

Emmanuelle Caillet Hardy with Ellie Mental Health
Peter Barkman with Verlo Mattress
Joshua Hoffmann with Groovy Hues
@DanBarton,CEO and Founder of Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique
Caleb Clayton with ISI® Elite Training Franchise
Steve Reppert with iFoam
CameronFerguson with @BodyFitTraining
Logan West with Heroes Lawn Care
@JasonBarclay with Clean Eatz

A Healthy Food Franchise?

During this holiday season, I admit to overindulging in food. If you are like me or want in on a HIGH DEMAND food concept, then you’ll be interested to know that there is a GREAT FOOD FRANCHISE you’ll want to check out.

It is HEALTH-FOCUSED. This franchise has a brick-and-mortar cafe model that utilizes FIVE PILLARS OF REVENUE to connect with its customers. They can CUSTOMIZE their health needs into three different categories; lose, maintain, and gain.

This isn't a traditional QSR brand. It embeds itself into its customers’ lives by showing REAL RESULTS for health goals and providing HEALTHY, CONVENIENT FOODS.

It is also a LIFESTYLE BRAND. A lifestyle brand is a franchise that fits the lifestyle of the owner!

Watch the replay on my Youtube channel if you missed this week’s podcast as we talk about ‘Healthy Food Concepts’ with guest star, @JasonBarclay with cleaneatzkitchen powered by BrandONE Franchise Development.

Fitness Is Not A Fad!

Did you know Pilates has been around for over 100 years? Joseph Pilates developed it in the early 20th century.

Mind-Body Connection: He believed in the inseparable link between mental and physical health. Pilates engages the mind to guide muscle movements through precision, concentration, and controlled breathing.

For those who practice Pilates, it is part of their lifestyle. Fitness is a lifestyle for all kinds of people.  Think about your family and friends who jog, golf, play pickleball, do yoga, cycle, or strength train.

FITNESS IS A LIFESTYLE!

To learn more about THE BOOMING FITNESS INDUSTRY, watch the full video on my @YouTube channel.

Making A Seasonal Business Year Round

It’s been impressive to see how some clever home service franchises have converted their seasonal services into year-round businesses.

Let’s start by outlining the value of a year-round business from the owner’s perspective:

🔺Retain employees with year-long employment
🔺Improve cash flow, especially in off-season months
🔺Cross-sell existing customer base with additional services
🔺Expand customer base with new services
🔺Have multiple income streams
🔺Strengthen loyalty with repeat customers across services

What are some home services that traditionally have seasonality:

✅Lawn care
✅Roofing
✅Pool service
✅Animal/pest control

What additional services have they added to offset seasonality:

📌Holiday decorating (Christmas lighting)
📌Pet waste removal
📌Snow removal
📌Mosquito control

Roofers are used to being on ladders, so putting up holiday lights is a natural service addition. In cold climates, lawn care workers can do snow removal. Adding pet waste removal is a great year-round business for any seasonal service like mosquito control and animal control.

In-house call centers make it easy for customers to book estimates and services year-round.

What Is Success To You?

As my sons are ending their college careers, and shifting their focus to interviewing, compensation packages, and training programs, we discuss balance, enjoying what you do, and lifestyle.

Naturally, money is a BIG deal. They are starting out on their own and will need new cars 🚘, a place to live, and an upgrade in wardrobe. They will be taking on car insurance, health insurance, renters insurance, and then one day, homeowners insurance, a mortgage, and so on.

From us, their parents, they hopefully see us model what we preach. For example,

I so LOVE what I do for a living: I help people live the life of their dreams

And it does take money.

Now here’s the thing: before I consult with anyone about owning a franchise, I have them put in writing

- WHO is important to them
- WHAT they do with the money the business makes and
- HOW they will spend their time away from the business.

Clearly, true success is not just about making money. It's about making a difference - in the lives of people you care about - your family members, your friends, your community.

As I trust is obvious, it’s also about making a positive difference in your own life. I have people write down what they want a business to do for them - personally, professionally, and financially.

Here’s to work-life balance, well-being, growth, fulfillment, creating wealth, and living the life of your dreams!

Embracing Fitness as a Lifestyle!

Millions, like me, make it part of our daily routine. Check out my workout pic with my awesome personal trainer!

We're also part of a pickleball association, attend yoga classes, bike by the lake, and walk our furry friends. Fitness is for everyone, of all ages!

On my Christmas list: a stretch studio membership - it's a real thing, not a fad!

Today is National Christmas Lights Day!

“Friday Fun Fact” Today is National Christmas Lights Day! Before electric lights, families risked candles on trees. Enter Thomas Edison who lit up his lab in 1880! Initial skepticism led to a slow start, but by 1903, General Electric made Christmas lights kits for all! Who knew?

I like December 1 being National Christmas Lights Day! I love a few days to savor and enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday and its message. Then come December, I‘m ready to make the transition to our next major holiday.

Today, these twinkling lights are a festive staple for all winter celebrations.

Let's deck our halls, our trees, our yards, and our home exteriors with lights and celebrate the season!

Can mental health services be franchised?

Mental health services are in high demand. Franchising offers a great business to make a positive impactwith individuals, families, and communities!

There are several health service franchises including chiropractic care, optometry services, weight loss centers, medical spas, and dental work.
Mental health services are one of the more recent health and wellness additions to franchising. Watch the full video on our YouTube channel!

Black Friday Fun Facts Extravaganza!

Did you know that Black Friday has a side of fun that goes beyond the long lines and mega discounts? Join us on a journey through the lighter side of the shopping frenzy! 🎉

Name Origins: "Black Friday" was coined to celebrate when retailers move from being in the red to in the black!

Cyber Monday Birth: The online shopping counterpart to Black Friday was introduced in 2005.  It is now a global purchasing phenomenon!

Black Friday Public Holiday: In some states, Black Friday is a public holiday! Who knew?

Black Friday in Space: Even astronauts get Black Friday deals, including a "space edition" on the International Space Station!

Acts of Kindness: Amid the hustle, businesses often surprise customers with freebies and discounts! Spread the love this BlackFriday!

Get ready for a shopping experience filled with laughs, surprises, and maybe a cart race or two!

Which fun fact surprised you the most? Share your thoughts!

“Gratitude in Every Heartbeat!”

Although my kids are not keen on it, I so enjoy my family members and gathered friends taking turns at Thanksgiving sharing what they are thankful for. I’ll start us off with this:

Thankful for Family: They are my treasure and greatest gift. My five siblings and me have created a next generation of 19 grandchildren.

I love that the many first cousins, aged 20 to 38, are getting to know each other as adults and becoming part of each others’ lives. The frequent weddings are a big help here

👫 Cherished Friends: Mary and Leon Fitts serve as close friends to my husband and me as well as in the role of grandparents to my two sons.

Here’s a shout-out to the friendly local pickleball community in Augusta, GA!

Acts of Kindness: To the members of Team Frannie who work with me and go the extra mile, I thank you. Each of them is responsive to people wanting information about selecting and vetting great franchise opportunities. Well done Hanah, Charmaine, Lucile Higgins, and Jocelyn.

Gratitude in Bloom: Even though leaves are falling, my heart blossoms with gratitude for a loving God, the splendor of nature, living in America, good health, and my two rescue dogs, Annie and Katie,

I’d love to learn WHAT AND WHO ARE YOU GRATEFUL FOR in the comments below!

Happy ‘Take a Hike Day

Hikes in the fall are fabulous!  I love the wonderful array of colors , the fresh, brisk air, the big blue sky and stunning mountain views .

I celebrated this unofficial holiday a bit early when my cousin, Lucile, and I went hiking at Cape Breton in Nova Scotia, Canada last month. We both loved the opportunity to bask in the beauty of our natural world.

In one day, we hiked along the Atlantic Ocean and the lovely Ingonish River which is bounded by beautiful trees and scenic mountains.

When was the last time you took a hike? Let me about it in the comments below.

Now, GO TAKE A HIKE!

Women Veterans: Facts and Statistics

“More Than 2 Million Women Are Veterans!” Well, the correct answer to this poll is that more than 2 million Women Veterans live in the U.S. today. This is according to the US Department of Veterans Affairs.

Here are some interesting statistics:

Women are the fastest-growing group in the Veteran population.

2000: 4%
2040: 18%

Women Veterans have served across all military branches and divisions.
Projections for 2025:

Army: 916,948
Air Force: 464,069
Navy: 409,586
Marines: 124,169
Reserve: 157,385
Non-defense: 28,900


Click the full article.

If you are a veteran, I’d love for you to let me know in the comments section below.

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR VETERANS AND ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY FOR THEIR SERVICE ❤️ 🗽

The Best Way To Predict The Future Is To Create It!

It’s my belief that this is the mindset of Tom Miller. It was a pleasure working with Tom and his wife, Tricia, as they explored franchises.

Tom met me two years ago through @LinkedIn.  When it was time to exit his company after it was acquired, he reached back out to me.

Let me encourage you to follow Tom’s example:
📍Connect with me on @LinkedIn so I’m part of your network

📍Send me a message when you are ready to learn more about what a franchise can do for you

📍Keep an open mind and remove preconceived notions about franchise

IFPG Retreat

"Coming together is a beginning 🌱 ; keeping together is progress 📈 ; working together is success 🏆 ". -Henry Ford

It was truly a pleasure 🤝 to have the opportunity to connect with these exceptional individuals at the recent International Franchise Professionals Group - IFPG Retreat last week!

Membership-Based Business Models

If you are thinking about owning a franchise, add a membership-based business to your list?

On the plus side, recurring revenue is a beautiful thing! This model isn't just for gyms;

- Beauty services like facials and waxing,
- Dog grooming, and
- Therapeutic massage studios also thrive with memberships.

Interested in more franchise business insights?

NATIONAL BUDDY CHECK WEEK: Connecting and Caring

This week marks the inaugural National Buddy Check Week, a time to reach out and support our Veterans.

The MISSION is clear, and it is simple:

📌 CALL,
📌TEXT, or
📌ENGAGE in a meaningful conversation

with 10 VETERANS during this special week.

You may not realize what a HUGE IMPACT this small effort can make. Check-in on their well-being, lend an ear, and let them know you care.

As a veteran myself, I can attest to the sacrifices veterans AND THEIR FAMILIES have made for our MANY FREEDOMS!

If you comment below or send me a message, I’ll be one of your 10 veteran contacts. Thanks for reaching to our VETERANS!

**Breaking Barriers: No Experience Necessary in Franchising!**

Ever wonder why the phrase "No Experience Necessary" is everywhere in franchising? The secret lies in comprehensive training programs!

As you delve into franchise opportunities, look for world-class

TRAINING

These programs are designed to educate individuals with zero industry background.

Franchises prioritize two key traits: a grasp of

- Basic business principles and
- Eagerness to learn.

It's not about your past but about your POTENTIAL!

Do you have these abilities?

- Getting things done
- Communicating well with people
- Follow-through

These talents are what successful franchisees possess.

Mission Accomplished!

I’m just back from a memorable trip to lovely Nova Scotia. It was my first visit to our Canadian neighbor to the North.

I accompanied my dear friend (and husband’s cousin) Lucile. Our mission: to honor Anne, her late sister. A couple of Anne’s friends joined us as Lucile spread Anne’s ashes in the Ingonish River amidst a gorgeous mountain setting.

Anne called Nova Scotia home, and we are comforted that her spirit continues.

Happy National Physical Therapy Month!

“BACK TO PLAYING PICKLEBALL!” October is here, and so is NATIONAL PHYSICAL THERAPY MONTH!
From firsthand experience as a patient, I attest to the expert treatment by outstanding physical (and occupational) therapists at the VA (Veterans Administration Hospital) in my hometown of Augusta, GA.

On more than one occasion, my therapists got me out of pain and back to playing pickleball!

THANK YOU!!!! 

Join me in giving a SHOUT OUT to all physical therapists! They help us

MOVE better
LIVE healthier and
THRIVE in our daily lives 

Whether you're bouncing back from an injury like me or managing a chronic condition, physical therapists make living life easier! THEY ROCK!

Business Exit Strategies

When I advise people on franchises, we focus a lot on selecting THE right business investment for them. We also discuss exit strategies.

The most common exit strategy for franchisees is to sell their businesses. This can be done as an inside sale to a family member like an adult child or a key employee like the General Manager.

Naturally, it can also be sold on the open market. 
Getting into a business venture is a process.  It is also a process to exit one.

✅ Start by knowing WHEN you, the owner, want TO EXIT. 
✅Then GET the business READY TO SELL, and do this well in advance of your planned departure. MEET WITH your CPA. 
✅IDENTIFY areas needing adjustment. Next, MAKE appropriate financial performance IMPROVEMENTS to your business. 
✅Normally, your CPA and franchisor help you DEVELOP THE SALES PRICE.

When you and your business are ready, MARKET THE BUSINESS for sale.