Welcome to the latest episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis hosts Catherine Knabb, an independent franchise consultant with over 30 years of experience across various industries. Catherine shares her insights into franchise consulting, the importance of informed decision-making, and the unique challenges faced by prospective franchisees.

Key Points Discussed:

Introduction to Catherine Knabb:

• Catherine's extensive experience spanning industries such as poultry, conglomerate foods, the payment industry, and hospitals.
• Her role as an independent franchise consultant, helping clients find the right franchise opportunities from over 500 brands across 40 categories.
• Emphasis on educating clients about franchising and guiding them through the selection process.

Franchise Consulting and Client Support:

• Catherine’s process of narrowing down suitable franchise options and conducting interviews with existing franchisees to ensure informed decisions.
• Her investment in Networking Action, a franchise that facilitates networking groups for business owners and representatives.
• Networking Action’s unique approach involving deep, meaningful conversations and hands-on activities to address business challenges.

The Franchise Selection Process:

• The diversity of brands Catherine works with, including well-known home services like CertaPro and Amco Transmission, as well as new and emerging brands.
• The benefits of franchising, such as a proven formula and support system, which reduce the risks associated with starting a business from scratch.
• The importance of understanding the responsibilities that come with owning a franchise.

Personality Profiling and Risk Assessment:

• Use of tools like the Bank system and the Zorical tool to ensure a good match between clients and franchises.
• The significance of adhering to these assessments to avoid costly mistakes and achieve success in franchising.

Challenges in the Franchise Industry:

• Issues of spam and overwhelming follow-up calls once potential franchisees submit their contact information to franchise brands.
• The drawback of being precluded from using a consultant for a brand once information is submitted, without incurring additional costs.
• Catherine’s advocacy for using a franchise consultant to manage interactions and protect prospective franchisees.

Transitioning from Corporate to Franchise Consulting:

• Catherine’s challenges in transitioning from a corporate role to franchise consulting, particularly in sales.
• The mindset shift required to succeed in sales and overcoming perfectionism.
• The steep learning curve of familiarizing herself with numerous brands and the unpredictable nature of running one’s own business.

Importance of Honesty and Direct Communication in Sales:

• The frustration caused by prospects who are indecisive or avoid straightforwardly rejecting an offer.
• Catherine’s struggle with not wanting to be an imposition and the necessity of asking tough questions to gauge a client's commitment.

Unique Approach to Franchise Consulting:

• Integrating business networking to provide comprehensive support to clients, including finding necessary services like funding and legal advice.
• The value of due diligence when choosing a franchise, illustrated by Catherine’s personal anecdote about her decision-making process.

Conclusion:

Tommy and Catherine conclude the episode with reflections on the importance of informed decision-making, the value of franchise consulting, and the power of networking and collective expertise. Catherine’s story highlights the resilience and adaptability required to succeed in the franchise industry. Whether you’re...

Welcome to the latest episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis is thrilled to introduce our guest, Josh Chernikoff, a seasoned entrepreneur with a rich background in education and youth enrichment programs. In this episode, Josh shares his journey from sports broadcasting to founding and scaling multiple successful businesses.

Key Points Discussed:

Introduction to Josh Chernikoff:

• Josh's transition from a sports broadcaster to an entrepreneur in the education sector.
• Founding a boutique home tutoring company in the DC area.
• Expansion into after-school enrichment programs through Flex Academies, operating in 82 schools before selling the business.

Building a Niche Market:

• Importance of understanding and dominating a niche market to create a successful, repeatable business model.
• Josh's experience in targeting schools with established enrichment cultures to effectively sell his services.

Entrepreneurial Journey:

• Challenges and successes in the education sector.
• Josh's current venture, the Ed Sales Elevation Experience, assisting education companies in generating high-quality, repeatable leads.
• Josh’s latest entrepreneurial pursuit with Overtime Athletics (OTA), a franchise providing organized sports programs for schools.

Metaphor of "Clean Windows":

• Targeting customers who already understand the value of a service.
• Josh's success by focusing on schools with established enrichment programs.

Media Exposure and Strategic Hires:

• Leveraging media exposure for business growth, as demonstrated by a significant boost from an NBC opportunity.
• The impact of strategic hires, like Mandy Eckman, in scaling the business by focusing on strengths and delegating operational responsibilities.

Scaling Businesses:

• Challenges of scaling businesses, particularly in identifying and serving the ideal client.
• Importance of having a clear, repeatable offer to streamline operations.
• Maintaining low overheads and flexible commitments, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Entrepreneurial Risks and Responsibilities:

• Discussion on the inherent risks and responsibilities of entrepreneurship.
• The impact on personal life and the need for a strong support system, especially from family.
• Tommy's experiences in giving employees entrepreneurial opportunities and the realization that true entrepreneurial spirit cannot be instilled.

Balancing Customizable Consulting and Scalable Operations:

• Struggles in balancing customizable consulting work with scalable business operations.
• The importance of knowing when to say no to short-term gains for long-term business development.

Conclusion:

Tommy and Josh conclude the episode with reflections on the ongoing journey of learning and adapting, essential for any entrepreneur aiming for sustainable success. Josh's story highlights the significance of understanding market needs, leveraging media exposure, and strategic hiring in scaling a business. Whether you're interested in the education sector, franchise operations, or entrepreneurial stories, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on entrepreneurship, scaling businesses, and achieving success in niche markets with Josh Chernikoff.

Links And Resources:

• EdSales Elevation Experience
• Josh Chernikoff on

Welcome to the latest episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis is thrilled to introduce our guest, Allison Welch, CEO and founder of As You Wish Lifestyle. In this episode, Allison shares her journey of creating an on-demand personal assistant and event planning company, navigating through the challenges of starting a business, and expanding into franchising.

• Allison's background and journey from being a personal assistant and event coordinator to founding As You Wish Lifestyle.
• The concept behind As You Wish Lifestyle: providing a la carte personal assistant and event planning services for busy families, executives, and athletes.

• Types of requests they handle, from moving assistance to organizing closets, running errands, and holiday preparations.
• The personalized touch and commitment to high-quality service that sets them apart from generic app-based services.

• The decision to franchise As You Wish Lifestyle and the steps taken to develop the franchise model.
• Current franchise locations and plans for future expansion into major cities across the United States.
• The importance of finding the right franchisees and ensuring they have the tools and support needed for success.

• Initial challenges faced when starting the business during a recession and the importance of word-of-mouth referrals.
• Ongoing challenges in finding the right team members who share the company’s values and dedication to confidentiality and excellence.

• Allison shares a challenging experience with a moving truck accident and the importance of having reliable vendors and a positive attitude.
• The significance of maintaining high standards and a personalized approach to client service.

• Goals for expanding the franchise to 45 units in the next five years.
• The role of personalized service and strong client relationships in the company's success.

• The importance of reducing stress and improving quality of life through personalized assistant services.
• Encouragement for listeners to consider the benefits of using As You Wish Lifestyle for their personal and event planning needs.

Thank you for joining us at Empire Builders! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and insights from entrepreneurs building their empires.

Links And Resources:

• As You Wish Lifestyle
• Allison Welch on LinkedIn

• Tommy Yionoulis on Linkedin
• OpsAnalitica

Thank you for joining us this week! Are you interested in subscribing to Empire Builders? We would love to hear your feedback! Connect with us on Spotify or Captivate.fm and leave us a review.

Welcome to the latest episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis is thrilled to introduce our guest, Brandon Duplessis, founder of Unicorn Business Funding. Brandon shares his incredible journey from professional basketball to establishing a successful financial empowerment company, offering insights into overcoming challenges and achieving success.

Introduction to Brandon Duplessis:

• Brandon's background includes his professional basketball career with the NBA G-League.
• The transition from sports to founding Unicorn Business Funding.

About Unicorn Business Funding:

• The company's mission to provide financial empowerment, business credit, and expedited loan processes.
• Successfully serving over 55,000 clients globally.

Challenges and Strategies in the Financial Sector:

• Addressing the arduous processes of traditional banks by offering quick, efficient solutions.
• Overcoming the skepticism and trust issues due to widespread financial scams.

Brandon’s Entrepreneurial Journey:

• From professional basketball to building a financial empire after facing career challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The importance of adapting and pivoting in response to external pressures and personal beliefs.

Lessons Learned in Business:

• The significance of targeting the right audience and delivering consistent results.
• Developing a knowledgeable and reliable team to ensure client satisfaction and business growth.

Personal and Professional Challenges:

• Brandon's determination and resilience after surviving a life-threatening gunshot wound.
• Using personal adversities as motivation to push forward and achieve greater success.

Future Plans and Vision:

• Potential expansion and franchising opportunities for Unicorn Business Funding.
• Navigating the economic landscape and preparing for potential market shifts.

Conclusion:

• Brandon's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and strategic thinking.
• Emphasizing the importance of financial literacy and empowerment in today’s society.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on overcoming challenges, building a successful business from the ground up, and achieving financial empowerment with Brandon Duplessis. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a sports enthusiast, or interested in financial strategies, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

Links And Resources:

• Instagram
• Brandon Duplessis on LinkedIn

• Tommy Yionoulis on Linkedin
• OpsAnalitica

Thank you for joining us this week! Are you interested in subscribing to Empire Builders? We would love to hear your feedback! Connect with us on Spotify or Captivate.fm and leave us a review.

Welcome to the latest episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis is thrilled to introduce our guest, Thomas Belongia, also known as Tommy B. Tommy B, an area developer and Franchise Owner for Biggby Coffee, who shares his intriguing journey from France to Wisconsin and offers deep insights into the world of franchise operations.

Key Points Discussed:

Introduction to Tommy B:

• Tommy B's unique name story and why he goes by Tommy B.
• His family's adventurous history.

Tommy B's Professional Journey:

• Transitioning from a self-employed entrepreneur to opening his first Biggby Coffee shop in Wisconsin.
• The role and responsibilities of an area developer for Biggby Coffee.

Importance of Finding the Right Franchisee:

• Tommy B emphasizes the critical nature of identifying franchisees who align with Biggby's culture and values.
• The process of onboarding a new franchisee, from finding real estate to training staff.

Creating a Positive Work Environment:

• The impact of a happy and engaged staff on customer experience.
• Strategies for franchise owners to build community relationships and generate loyal customers.

Why Biggby Coffee?

• Tommy B and his wife's decision-making process in choosing Biggby Coffee after extensive research.
• The personal touch and alignment with values that drew them to the brand.

Marketing Strategies:

• Differentiating between paid and guerrilla marketing.
• Effective guerrilla marketing techniques like "drink drops" and engaging local businesses.

Community Engagement:

• The importance of building relationships within the local community.
• Examples of community involvement, such as supporting local causes and creative marketing initiatives.

Overcoming Challenges and Building Brand Awareness:

• Strategies for introducing a coffee brand to new markets.
• The significance of having a strong, supportive team and robust systems in place.

Personal Story of Resilience:

• Tommy B's experience overcoming a severe brain injury and the importance of well-established business systems.
• Advocating for owners to focus on strategic planning and growth, ensuring long-term business success.

Conclusion:

Tommy and Tommy B conclude the episode with reflections on the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of resilience, community engagement, and strategic marketing. Tommy B's story highlights the dedication required to succeed in the competitive world of franchise operations. Whether you're interested in the coffee industry or entrepreneurial stories, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on franchise development, creating positive work environments, and achieving business success with Tommy B.

Links And Resources:

• BIGGBY COFFEE
• Thomas Belongia (Tommy B) on LinkedIn

• Tommy Yionoulis on Linkedin
• OpsAnalitica

Thank you for joining us this week! Are you interested in subscribing to Empire Builders? We would love to hear your feedback! Connect with us on

Welcome to the latest episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis is thrilled to introduce our guest, Orhan Veli, a franchisee of SaladWorks, a quick-service restaurant specializing in healthy eating, primarily salads. Orhan shares his journey from finance to managing multiple SaladWorks locations, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of the food industry.

Key Points Discussed:

Introduction to Orhan Veli:

• Orhan's background as an immigrant from Azerbaijan and his journey to the United States.
• Transition from a finance career at Morgan Stanley to joining the family business in the restaurant industry.
• The successful management of eleven SaladWorks locations and supplying salads to 28 Giant supermarket locations.

Challenges in the Food Industry:

• Logistical challenges of maintaining freshness and managing labor in a restaurant.
• The importance of efficient operations and adaptability in the food industry.
• Comparisons between running a restaurant with perishable products and other food operations.

Orhan's Entrepreneurial Journey:

• Starting with a Charlie's Subs franchise in Philadelphia, a competitive market.
• Observing the operational ease of SaladWorks compared to the labor-intensive sub shop.
• Transitioning to SaladWorks in 2011, guided by the largest franchisee at the time.

Managing a Restaurant with Perishable Products:

• The importance of having a skilled team and efficient processes to handle unpredictability.
• Customer service and employee retention as critical factors for success.
• The need for passion and enjoyment in the business to achieve long-term success.

Impact of Third-Party Delivery Services:

• The profound effect of delivery services on profitability.
• Strategies to balance the shift in customer behavior, including menu pricing and unique in-store experiences.
• Exploring automation and tech partnerships to streamline processes while maintaining quality.

Navigating Rising Labor Costs:

• Challenges in hiring qualified individuals for prep work.
• Potential automation options to manage labor costs and improve efficiency.

Commitment to Customers:

• Decision not to raise prices in 2023 out of concern for loyal customers.
• Plans for navigating the fine line between profitability and customer satisfaction.

Conclusion:

Tommy and Orhan conclude the episode with reflections on the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of passion, efficient operations, and customer service in the food industry. Orhan's story highlights the resilience and adaptability required to succeed in a competitive market. Whether you're interested in the food industry or entrepreneurial stories, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on overcoming challenges, managing a restaurant with perishable products, and achieving success in the food industry with Orhan Veli.

Links And Resources:

• Saladworks
• Orhan Veli on LinkedIn

• Tommy Yionoulis on Linkedin
• OpsAnalitica

Thank you for joining us this week! Are you interested in subscribing to Empire...

Welcome to the latest episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis is thrilled to introduce our guest, Mark Schnurman, the "Franchise Career Coach & President" of The Perfect Franchise. Mark shares his journey from franchise consultant to establishing a successful business helping individuals determine if owning a franchise is right for them.

Key Points Discussed:

Introduction to Mark Schnurman:

• Mark's role as the founder of The Perfect Franchise.
• Growth of his team to over 50 contractors.
• The Perfect Franchise helps individuals determine if owning a franchise is right for them by generating leads, training consultants, and building strong relationships with franchise brands.

Critical Need for Personal Responsibility Among Franchisees:

• Franchisees must not solely rely on franchisors but take ownership of their businesses, including marketing efforts and financial management.
• Success in franchising requires significant commitment, a willingness to adapt, and an ability to pivot based on market feedback.
• Importance of flexibility and readiness to adjust plans as needed.

Insights on Risk Management in Franchising:

• Many clients initially seek franchises out of necessity, such as job loss, but motivation often evolves into building large-scale enterprises.
• Guiding clients through the process, helping them understand the nuances and risks of franchising to make informed decisions.

Importance of Self-Awareness in Business:

• Many people lack self-awareness, especially regarding their level of commitment.
• Discrepancy between perceived and actual commitment is a common challenge in franchising.
• Importance of honest self-assessment before diving into franchise ownership.

Approach to Building a Franchise Empire:

• Start small and gradually expand, ensuring manageability and success at each stage.
• Importance of not overextending oneself and maintaining sufficient cash flow.
• Avoid tying up too much capital in initial investments.

Support from Franchisors for Franchisees' Success:

• Lead generation, supply chain management, and staffing assistance are crucial for franchisee success.
• Franchisors should provide robust lead generation through digital marketing and other means.
• Effective support structures enable franchisees to focus on running their businesses efficiently.

Utilizing Franchisor Resources and Connecting with Fellow Franchisees:

• Franchisees often pay significant fees for ongoing support and expertise, which they should fully leverage.
• Seeking advice from the franchisor and experienced franchisees within the system.
• Active engagement with the franchise network provides valuable insights and solutions.

Conclusion:

Tommy and Mark conclude the episode with reflections on the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility, flexibility, and utilizing available resources. Whether you're contemplating franchising or interested in entrepreneurial stories, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on navigating the complexities of franchising, achieving success, and the entrepreneurial spirit with Mark Schnurman.

Links And Resources:

• The Perfect Franchise
• P3 Cost Analysts
• Mark Schnurman on

Welcome to the latest episode of Empire Builders! Today, Tommy Yionoulis is thrilled to introduce our guest, Matt Wood, an entrepreneur with a dynamic background. Matt shares his journey from military service to franchising with 30 Minute Hit, a women-only kickboxing and boxing HIIT circuit.

Key Points Discussed:

• Involvement in two businesses: Suiting Green Consulting and 30 Minute Hit.
• 30 Minute Hit: A franchise offering a 30-minute HIIT workout specifically for women.
• Recent focus on expanding 30 Minute Hit locations in Central Florida.

• Retirement from the military in 2017 and subsequent role at the Walt Disney Company.
• Challenges and layoff experience during the 2020 Disney layoffs.
• Motivation for entrepreneurship: Finding purpose and solving problems.

• Discovery of 30 Minute Hit through LinkedIn and engagement with franchise owners.
• Challenges faced during the setup, including real estate issues and lengthy processes.
• Perseverance in overcoming obstacles such as ineffective realtors and financing difficulties.

• Issues with the initial realtor and switching to a local agent.
• Securing a supportive landlord and lender despite numerous rejections.
• Construction delays and the need for multiple rounds of financing.

• Importance of proactive communication, clear documentation, and persistence.
• Advice for potential franchisees: Monitor business dealings closely and address ineffective partners early.
• Inspirational story of resilience and determination.

• The significance of creating a great customer experience and the impact on client retention.
• Training staff to excel in sales conversations and the excitement of seeing financial benefits from successful sales.

• Confidence in the efficiency of opening future locations based on lessons learned.
• Reflection on the transition from a 21-year military career to civilian life and entrepreneurship.
• Positive outlook on the journey and future opportunities in franchising.

Conclusion:

Tommy and Matt conclude the episode with reflections on the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of resilience, clear communication, and ongoing learning. Whether you're contemplating franchising or interested in entrepreneurial stories, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on overcoming challenges, achieving success, and the entrepreneurial spirit with Matt Wood.

Links And Resources:

• 30 Minute Hit
• Matt Wood on LinkedIn

• Tommy Yionoulis on Linkedin
• OpsAnalitica

Thank you for joining us this week! Are you interested in subscribing to Empire Builders? We would love to hear your feedback! Connect with us on Spotify or Captivate.fm and leave us a...