Welcome to another episode of The Advisory Board Podcast, where we bring industry experts to help us understand the intricacies of running responsible and successful franchises. This episode is proudly sponsored by ClientTether. Thank you, ClientTether, for your continued support.
In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Bryan Park, founder and CEO of Footprints Floors, a flourishing flooring franchise based in Colorado. Bryan's story is a testament to how Faith can profoundly impact franchise success and community building.
Bryan shares that his business journey is deeply intertwined with his faith. He doesn't see himself as the architect of his success but as a steward of a mission he believes is guided by a higher power. "The Lord built this thing," Bryan humbly states, emphasizing his role as a caretaker rather than a creator.
Footprints Floors has grown remarkably, boasting 90 franchisees and over 170 locations nationwide within just five years. This rapid expansion, Bryan insists, is not a result of his doing but a reflection of his faith-driven approach. His philosophy is simple: show up, serve, and let faith guide the way.
Bryan's journey into the flooring business started in an unexpected way. After a stint in the Air Force and a plan to become a civil engineer, fate intervened when his dogs destroyed his carpet. Watching a hired professional install new floors, Bryan realized he could do the same. This serendipitous event led him to launch Footprints Floors in 2008, amid a challenging economic landscape.
Despite starting with $40,000 in debt and a precarious financial situation, Bryan trusted in his faith. His story is not just one of business acumen but of resilience, humility, and unwavering belief. He recounts working without pay for six months during the 2008 financial crisis, prioritizing his employees' wages over his own. His loyalty and faith culminated in a turning point when he was let go from his job, pushing him to fully commit to his own business.
Footprints Floors was born out of a period of significant personal and financial strain. Yet, Bryan believes this was when the Lord was carrying him, a sentiment that inspired the company's name, derived from the famous "Footprints in the Sand" poem. This ethos is embedded in the company’s DNA and is reflected in its culture and operations.
Bryan's faith informs every decision at Footprints Floors, from business strategies to team building. He emphasizes that their faith is not compartmentalized; it permeates every aspect of the business. This holistic approach creates a unique culture that prioritizes trust, love, and community.
A striking example of this is Joyful Light Youth Theater, a community initiative Bryan and his wife run, involving about 400 participants. This project, though demanding, is a labor of love and a way to give back. Bryan's leadership in this venture mirrors his approach at Footprints Floors—rooted in faith and service.
The inclusive culture at Footprints Floors stands out in the franchise industry. Despite being led by Christians, the company does not discriminate based on faith, race, or orientation. Bryan proudly notes that their team includes people from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQ individuals, Jewish and Muslim franchisees, and many who have never set foot in a church. This inclusivity, he explains, is a core Christian value of loving one's neighbor.
Maintaining this culture amidst rapid growth is a challenge Footprints Floors meets through strong leadership and continuous engagement with franchisees. Regular webinars, annual conventions, and personal interactions help reinforce their values and ensure everyone feels part of a supportive community.
Bryan's humility and focus on serving others have cultivated a strong, supportive culture at Footprints Floors. He believes that true leadership is about service and humility, a lesson he embodies daily.
In conclusion, Bryan's story is a powerful reminder of the impact of faith in business. His journey shows that integrating faith into business practices can lead to not only financial success but also create a positive, inclusive, and supportive community. As Bryan aptly puts it, "We can't serve two masters. Serve the Lord, and everything else will take care of itself."
Thank you again to ClientTether for sponsoring this episode. Join us next time on The Advisory Board Podcast for more insights from industry leaders. Until then, remember to lead with faith and integrity in all your endeavors.
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