FranchiseU!

What does it take to build more than 160 McAlister’s Deli restaurants, lead nearly 8,000 employees, and still live by the motto “Have fun. No regrets.”? In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser interviews David Blackburn, founder, former CEO, and current chairman of Southern Rock Restaurants, the largest McAlister’s Deli franchisee in the United States. From his humble start at Bonanza to leading one of America’s top restaurant franchise groups, David shares an inspiring story of growth, leadership, and purpose. With over 45 years of restaurant industry experience, David’s career has taken him from busboy to executive leadership, including serving as vice president of operations and business development for O’Charley’s Restaurants during its peak years. In 2006, he made the leap into restaurant entrepreneurship, launching Southern Rock Restaurants and expanding it into a multi-state powerhouse with 164 locations across 13 states. Along the way, he also owned upscale steak and Italian restaurants, proving his ability to succeed across diverse dining concepts. In this episode, David reveals his franchise leadership strategies, lessons in multi-unit operations, and the guiding principles that fuel sustainable success. He discusses the role of family involvement, the impact of trusted partners like Compel4 Accounting, and why he believes business should be as fun as it is meaningful. Now leading a growing multi-brand restaurant platform pursuing new acquisitions, David reflects on what it means to lead with purpose, grow with vision, and live with no regrets. This episode of FranchiseU! is a must-listen for anyone passionate about franchise growth, restaurant leadership, and entrepreneurial inspiration. Topics discussed include: · David Blackburn's Career Journey · Leadership Lessons from O'Charley's · The meaning of ‘Have Fun, No Regrets’ · Family and Business at Southern Rock · Managing Multi-Unit Operations · Multi-Unit Operations Management Tips · Effective Communication and Daily Routines · Franchise Advisory Council Insights Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!: Website: FranchiseU! Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast Twitter: @franchiseupod TikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

From winning a Super Bowl with the Raiders to building one of the largest Auntie Anne’s franchise groups in the country, Ed Muransky has lived two extraordinary careers. In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser sits down with Ed Muransky, founder and CEO of the Muransky Companies, to discuss how lessons from the NFL shaped his approach to business and leadership. He shares how he grew his franchise portfolio—including Auntie Anne’s, Cinnabon, and Jamba Juice—while emphasizing the power of mentoring, relationships, and perseverance. Muransky also reflects on family involvement in business, his management philosophy, and the creative strategies behind initiatives like Auntie Anne’s pretzel trucks. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: · Life lessons from NFL stardom · Challenges and triumphs in franchising · Leadership, employee perks, and management philosophy · Family involvement in business success · Innovative marketing strategies, like the Pretzel Truck · The power of relationships in franchising · Practical advice for aspiring franchisees Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!: Website: FranchiseU! Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast Twitter: @franchiseupod TikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

What do combat missions, data analytics, and warm cookies fresh from the oven all have in common? Well, that's all a part of today's guest incredible journey on this episode of Franchisee. So today I am joined by Nick Jewel, who's a decorated veteran, turned entrepreneur, and now a multi-unit franchisee of crumble cookies from earning two Bronze stars as a combat controller in the Air National Guard. Nick has led with courage, innovation, and resilience. Now he's channeling those skills into one of the fastest growing brands. In franchising, you'll hear how he made the leap from the military to franchising and what it takes to grow multiple units and his advice for anyone dreaming of entrepreneurship, please take a listen. In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser welcomes Nicholas Jewell, a multi-unit Crumbl Cookies franchisee in the Louisville Metro area. Nick’s path to franchising is anything but ordinary, spanning military service, entrepreneurship, logistics, and now cookie domination. Nick served 11 years as a combat controller in the Air National Guard, earning two Bronze Stars before shifting his focus to business. He founded a logistics company during the pandemic, completed a Master of Science in Business Analytics at UofL, and was recognized as a Louisville Business First 40 Under 40 honoree. Today, he’s preparing to open his third Crumbl Cookies location, with plans for more growth on the horizon. What You’ll Learn In This Episode: Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!: Website: FranchiseU! Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast Twitter: @franchiseupod TikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

You know what's great about franchising? It is that almost any concept can be franchised. And there's one I hadn't thought about. That is in the world of beauty, determining what colors look best on you. It's something that maybe those of us knew in the 80s and 90s, but House of Colour USA really knows what they're doing today. And I had the opportunity to visit House of Colour in this podcast with Ally Van Iten who is the CEO. She walks us through the franchise, the possibilities, what they do for people, and really what a wonderful opportunity it is. Please take a listen. In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser sits down with Ally Van Iten, CEO of House of Colour USA, to explore how a personal color analysis business from the 80s has grown into a thriving global franchise with over 400 stylists. Allie shares her inspiring journey from stay-at-home mom to franchisee, and ultimately to CEO, highlighting the flexibility and empowerment franchising made possible in her life. Together, Kathy and Ally unpack: · The emotional impact of House of Colour USA’s services—helping clients rediscover confidence and self-expression. · How Ally transitioned from running six franchises to leading a fast-growing international brand. · Why passion and people skills matter more than a beauty background for franchisees. · How House of Colour trains, supports, and equips entrepreneurs for success. · The role AI might play in the future of personal styling—and why human connection will always set House of Color apart. Whether you’re curious about franchising opportunities, fascinated by the science of color, or just love hearing a story of resilience and reinvention, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!: Website: FranchiseU! Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast Twitter: @franchiseupod TikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser speaks with Shelly Berkowitz, the esteemed founder of BrightStar Care. Berkowitz shares her inspiring journey from her early days working in corporate jobs to founding BrightStar, a premier medical and non-medical home healthcare and medical staffing service franchise. She recounts the challenges and successes she faced while growing BrightStar into a nationally recognized brand, her strategic decision to franchise, and her recent transition to starting a new venture called Founder to Founder. This venture aims to support and empower other founders in scaling their businesses. Berkowitz offers deep insights into her decision-making processes, the importance of resilience, and how the COVID-19 pandemic influenced her decision to sell BrightStar. The episode is a testament to Berkowitz's passion for franchising and her commitment to supporting other entrepreneurs. Shelly Berkowitz is the founder and CEO of Founder 2 Founder, offering objective, founder-aligned guidance from someone who’s been there. She is also the founder of BrightStar Care and the Executive Chairwoman of BrightStar Holdings Parent, LLC, the parent company of BrightStar Care and BrightStar Care Homes. Founder 2 Founder offers personalized, objective guidance to help founders with businesses that will be above $10million in EBITDA within 24 months scale or sell their company with confidence. Shelly Berkowitz’s journey as a founder began in 2002 with BrightStar Care, a national home healthcare and medical staffing company dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality care to families across the country. What began as a personal mission grew into a franchise system with more than 400 locations, employing over 20,000 professionals and generating $750 million in system-wide revenue. After more than 20 years as CEO, Berkowitz made the decision to transition from an active operational CEO role to a strategic Chairperson role, selling a majority stake in BrightStar to Peak Rock Capital while remaining a material shareholder and active board member. Today, Berkowitz is dedicated to helping other founders prepare for and navigate the complexities of scaling, selling, and stewarding their business legacies. Having lived the founder journey from start-up to successful exit, She brings a rare combination of operational insight and emotional understanding to one of the most personal and high-stakes decisions a founder can make. Berkowitz is also a mom of two, published author, keynote speaker and longtime advocate for women in business, home healthcare innovation and franchising excellence.

I have an opportunity, in my line of work, to talk to a lot of franchisees and a lot of franchisors. It's always enlightening, but it's very rare to be able to talk to someone who has been a franchisee of multiple brands and continues to give back even now with consulting. So join me in this episode of FranchiseU! when I talk with Ron Taylor. Ron has been a very successful franchisee of Edible Brands, and now is a franchisee of Nothing But Cakes and SweatHouz and has his own consulting business. He has some wonderful insights to share with us. Taylor is the founder of Franchise Authentic, a brand rooted in real-world franchise experience and proven results. With a background as a top-performing franchisee and operator, he helps align aspiring entrepreneurs with the right franchise brand. Topics discussed include: Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!: Website: FranchiseU! Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast Twitter: @franchiseupod TikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

So many of us have heard about Magnolia Bakery. It's been famous from TV shows like Sex in the City; and Only Murders in the Building. They have delicious cupcakes and banana pudding, just all the wonderful things. But what's really exciting is… Magnolia Bakery has just announced that they are going to start franchising here in the US and there are so many opportunities available.In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser welcomes Bobbie Lloyd and Jason Mattes from Magnolia Bakery as they walk us through the Magnolia Bakery story and where they're headed. Topics discussed include:Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU! Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast Twitter: @franchiseupod TikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

The International Franchise Association does so much to protect, enhance, and support the franchise model. It's really pretty incredible the amount of work they do, but sometimes people don't know exactly what do they do. So join me in this episode of FranchiseU! where I have the privilege of sitting down with Matt Hower, the CEO of the IFA and Jennifer branding the COO of the IFA, or they talk about not only their journeys to franchising, but all the things that the IFA offers and has done to ensure this model stays alive and helps millions of people who work with and thrive within it. In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser sits down with Matt Haller, the CEO, and Jennifer Brandeen, the COO, of the International Franchise Association (IFA). They discuss the extensive efforts of the IFA in protecting, enhancing, and promoting the franchise model. Topics discussed include: · Introduction to the IFA · Matt Haller's Journey to the IFA · Jennifer Brandeen's Path to Franchising · Mission and Role of the IFA · Misconceptions About Franchising · Franchising's Economic Impact · IFA Events and Education · Franchise Update Media Acquisition · Educational Initiatives and Digital Ecosystem · Franchise Ascension Initiative · Future of Franchising Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!: Website: FranchiseU! Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast Twitter: @franchiseupod TikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

Agape Capitalism. What is that and why would I be talking about that on a franchising podcast? Well join me in this episode of FranchiseU! as I talk with Jane Abell and Tony Capuano of Donatos Pizza. Jane is the chairwoman of the board, and Tony is her son, who is also the Senior Vice President of Franchise Operations and Training. They take us along the journey of Donatos when it was created by her father who started in 1963. They sold to McDonald's and then bought it back from McDonald's. They also talk about how they have woven the whole theory of combining love and capitalism into a very successful enterprise. Topics discussed include: · Meet Jane Abell and Tony Capuano · Jane Abell's Journey with Donato's · Tony Capuano's Career Path · The Donato's Story: From Creation to McDonald's to Independence · Donato's Current Growth and Future Plans · Agape Capitalism: Leading with Love · Navigating Family Business Challenges · The Rewards of Family Business Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!: Website: FranchiseU! Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast Twitter: @franchiseupod TikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

One thing that almost all of us have in common is the desire to live a healthy, long life. There is now a franchise to help with proactively taking control of your health. Join me in this episode of FranchiseU! as I talk with Scott Svilich, the COO of Next Health. The only large scale franchise providing medically backed healthcare services with a proactive approach to prioritizing health and fitness. Topics discussed include: · Meet Scott Svilich: From Trainer to COO · Scott's Journey in the Fitness Industry · Transition to Exponential Fitness · Innovative Services at Next Health · Membership Model and Franchising · Franchising Strategy and Growth · Financials and Profit Margins · Ideal Franchise Partners Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!: Website: FranchiseU! Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast Twitter: @franchiseupod TikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

Dr. Kathy Gosser interviews Amy Leclerc, co-founder of Sit Still Kids Salon franchise. The discussion covers Leclerc’s journey from advertising to leading a kids' hair salon franchise. Highlights Include: Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!: Website: FranchiseU! Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast Twitter: @franchiseupod TikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

Dr. Kathy Gosser interviews James Hilovsky, a dedicated franchise broker and the CEO of FranDream. Hilovsky shares his journey from spending 25 years at Del Taco to transitioning to franchise brokering. Highlights Include: Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!: Website: FranchiseU! Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast Twitter: @franchiseupod TikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

You should learn something new every day. Those words come from a new Potbelly franchisee, Hampden Keil, who started a multi-unit franchise with his father, Bryant Keil, the founder of Potbelly. Join me in this episode of FranchiseU! as we hear Hampden talk about his experience and how he and his dad are creating a Potbelly dynasty, starting with 13 restaurants with plans to add 15 more. In this episode of FranchiseU!, I interview Hampden Keil, COO of the Keil Group, LLC, to discuss his journey into the restaurant industry and his experience in building a Potbelly Sandwich Works multi-unit franchise business alongside, Bryant Keil, his father. Keil talks about his background in journalism, his extensive experience in the restaurant industry, and the valuable lessons he learned working at Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises. The conversation delves into the Keil Group's ambitious plans to expand their footprint by adding new Potbelly units to their existing 13, the importance of operational systems, and the evolving dynamics of family-run businesses. Keil also offers insights into the challenges of hiring and training staff, the significance of having a strong support system, and the advantages of being a Potbelly franchisee. Topics discussed include: 1. Keil’s Early Career & Education A. Experiences as a Journalist B. Experiences at Lettuce Entertain You C. Experiences at Joe's Brewery D. Experiences at the Keil Group 2. The Potbelly Brand & Legacy A. Founding and Evolution of Potbelly B. Unique Franchising Model and Operations C. Benefits of Checklists and Operational Standards D. Advantages of becoming a Potbelly Franchisee 3. Working with Family A. Definite division of roles: Hampden handles operations; Bryant focuses on growth and development. B. Benefits of complementary working styles (realistic vs. creative). C. Benefits of daily catch-up calls that blend business and personal conversation. 4. Advantages of Becoming a Franchisee A. Quality product and brand identity. B. Strong corporate support and operational guidance. C. Opportunity for personal and professional support. 5. Advice for Aspiring Franchisees and Students A. Be prepared for the shift from floor operations to oversight. B. Confidence grows with experience. C. Constant learning and listening to experienced team members are key. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!: Website: FranchiseU! Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast Twitter: @franchiseupod TikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

I'm not the techiest person around. And so when I was approached to talk to a couple of folks about geofencing, I thought, geo what? So I had to take a look, find out what it was, but then it fascinated me, and it is a way for a small franchise to really maximize their foot traffic. So in this episode of Franchisee, I talk with Ernesto k and Barbara Wardell, who've come up with an incredible concept. In this episode of Franchisee, I ask Ernesto and Barbara to share their initial curiosity and subsequent fascination with geofencing. They discuss how this technology can help small franchises increase their foot traffic and more. This conversation has some very innovative uses of the geofencing concept. Topics discussed include: 1.Understanding Geofencing 2.Benefits of Geofencing include: 3.How to embrace Geofencing 4.Learn more at the Cullari and Wardell Ad Agency Website Ernesto Cullari is a multifaceted creative professional writer, commercial photographer, director, and Co-founder and CMO; renowned for pioneering GPS-based, location-based advertising. With expertise in content creation, digital advertising, and marketing strategy, he has worked with a wide range of high-profile brands and personalities. He was a regular on-air contributor and producer for The Financial Quarterback™ and has an extensive background in the music industry, having led artist development for Grammy-winning KNS Productions. A published songwriter and columnist, Cullari’s writing has appeared on Fox News and in triCityNews. In 2012, he ran for U.S. Congress as a GOP candidate in Monmouth County. Follow Ernesto Cullari on LinkedIn Barbara Wardell is a seasoned marketing and ad professional who left behind a very successful career in the specialty medicine world to become a disruptor on behalf of small businesses. She has a focused and competitive mindset she uses to guide, Cullari & Wardell, a geofencing ad agency. Wardell focuses on what makes her clients strong and their competition weak. She then uses GPS location data to match would-be customers to her client’s strengths, thereby best positioning her clients for success. The measurable results in terms of increased foot traffic and online conversations are game-changing. Beyond her professional pursuits, Wardell is a proud mother of two outstanding young men, balancing her role as a dedicated businesswoman with a passion for enjoying life to the fullest and spending quality time with family and friends. Follow Barbara Wardell on Instagram. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!: Website: FranchiseU! Instagram: @franchiseu_podcast Facebook: @FranchiseU Podcast Twitter: @franchiseupod TikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser and Dr. Isabel Botero joined by Bonny and Marcus Shelton, who share their incredible journey as multi-generational KFC franchisees. The Sheltons recount the inspiring history of Bacon Enterprises, Inc., starting with Bonnie's father in the 1960s, through their significant contributions to the KFC community, and culminating in the successful exit from their family business. They discuss the keys to their success, including family unity, clear communication, and strong ethical values. The Sheltons also share their strategies for managing a family-owned business, the importance of transparent operating agreements, and their comprehensive approach to ensuring the well-being of their employees during the sale. This episode provides valuable insights into maintaining family harmony while achieving business success. Time Topic 00:00 Introduction and Co-Host Welcome 00:20 Meet the Shelton Family: Multi-Generational KFC Franchisees 01:27 Bonnie's Story: The Early Days of Bacon Enterprises 04:10 A Family Business: Challenges and Triumphs 07:14 Marcus's Journey: From Childhood Memories to Business Leader 12:10 The Next Generation: Roles of the Shelton Daughters 15:27 Growth and Leadership: Expanding the Franchise 18:25 Working Together: Family Dynamics in Business 22:46 Balancing Family and Business 23:12 Leadership and Conflict Resolution 27:35 Values and Principles in Family Business 28:34 Decision to Sell the Business 31:20 Navigating the Sale Process 37:36 Celebrating and Reflecting on Success 40:03 Advice for Family Businesses 42:58 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser speaks with Jamie Krasnov, CEO of Apex Leadership Company, about his journey from finance to philanthropy-driven entrepreneurship. Krasnov discusses his background in private equity, his passion for franchising, and the innovative fundraising solutions provided by Apex Leadership. Apex conducts fun runs and other events at schools to raise funds significantly while teaching leadership, fitness, and wellness. Krasnov explains the franchise model, emphasizing its low entry cost and the support provided to franchisees. Apex aims to serve thousands of schools, driven by a mission to build future leaders and support underprivileged communities. Jamie Krasnov is a dedicated business leader who currently holds the position of CEO at Apex Leadership Company. In this role, Krasnov has been instrumental in steering the company's strategy and execution to increase value to the Apex franchisees and Apex schools across the nation. His determination to elevate the company’s led to the brand seeing an outstanding 200% revenue increase since he took stepped into the role as CEO in 2021. Before his tenure at Apex, Krasnov founded Heritage Operating Partners, a private equity firm supported by other operators concentrated on fast-growing franchisors. Prior to Heritage, Krasnov served in various investing roles across private equity, public equity, and investment banking for a decade. He graduated with honors from the University of Texas. Krasnov resides in Houston, Texas, where he enjoys spending time with family and his two dogs.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser has a speaks with Erika Wasser, co-founder and CEO of Prospr, a groundbreaking app designed to streamline communication, shift management, and culture building in multi-unit operations. They delve into the challenges of effective communication within franchises, especially with hourly team members. Wasser shares her journey from TV hosting to entrepreneurial ventures, highlighting the creation of Prospr. The discussion covers the app's features, such as scheduling, accountability measures, and an engaging bulletin system, emphasizing its significant ROI and impact on employee retention. Wasser also touches on the importance of adapting communication methods to modern needs and her vision for the future of Prospr. Time Topic 00:00 Introduction and Episode Teaser 01:23 Meet Erica Wasser: Entrepreneurial Journey 06:00 The Birth of Prosper at Work 07:16 How Prosper at Work Enhances Communication 10:33 Innovative Features of Prosper at Work 12:42 Building a Positive Work Culture 15:47 Adapting to Modern Learning Styles 16:44 Challenges in Workforce Engagement 17:49 Customizing Prosper for Brands 18:22 Franchisor vs Franchisee Engagement 19:02 Addressing Franchisee Pain Points 22:04 The Importance of Communication and Culture 27:37 Future Innovations for Prosper 28:58 Reflections and Closing Thoughts

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser speaks with Michael Seaman, co-founder and CEO of Swipesum, a comprehensive payment processing and merchant services consultancy delivering innovative auditing solutions to businesses nationwide. Seaman founded Swipesum in 2016 with his brother, Stephen, to serve as Chief Payments Officer for businesses nationwide, combining industry knowledge, AI and proprietary software to create a transparent payments strategy that optimizes payment processing fees. The company has been recognized by the Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest-growing privately held companies in the U.S. and by Entrepreneur as a 2024 Top Franchise Supplier. Before starting Swipesum, Seaman worked at Worldpay after graduating from Samford University where he earned a place in their Athletics Hall of Fame as a pole vaulter. In the episode Seaman shares his early entrepreneurial experiences, including an Etsy business and niche products, and how his upbringing influenced his career. Seaman explains Swipesum's unique approach in helping businesses, particularly franchises, with merchant services and payment solutions. He delves into the company's use of AI to optimize services, their transparent pricing structures, and how they've earned top franchise supplier ratings. He also highlights the importance of human touch in customer service despite AI advancements. Seaman discusses his journey from college entrepreneur to heading a technology company specializing in payment processing solutions. The episode concludes with a look at the future of Swipesum and reflections on Michael’s professional journey and insights into the franchise industry.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser speaks with Will Cantrell, a seasoned employment and franchise attorney, regarding the intricacies of franchise law. Cantrell, Founding Partner of Cantrell Schuette, P.A. is a nationally recognized leading attorney in handling complex disputes, litigation, and trials. Apart from his background in general commercial litigation, he specializes the areas of employment law, partnership and shareholder law, and franchisee/dealership law. Cantrell is a graduate of FSU College of Law (J.D., magna cum laude, 2008), where he was selected for the Order of the Coif, graduating in the top five percent of his law class. He also received a master’s degree in international economics from FSU (M.A., cum laude, 2005) After law school, Cantrell obtained a coveted judicial clerkship with the Honorable Hugh Lawson, United States District Court Judge for the Middle District of Georgia. Gosser and Cantrell discuss due diligence for potential franchisees, emphasizing the importance of consulting existing franchisees and being cautious of sales pitches. He highlights key elements of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) to review, including financial disclosures and the experience of those running the franchise. Additionally, Cantrell touches on the implications of joint employer rule changes by the NLRB and how proposed alterations could affect the franchise model. He advises new franchisees on negotiating franchise agreements and underscores the need for legal support when entering a franchise agreement. Cantrell also reflects on his career, expressing pride in building a successful law firm specializing in employment and franchise law.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser and Co-Host with Dr. Isabel Botero speaks with Aaron Engler, President of Border Foods, a large family-owned Taco Bell franchisee, and Mollie Sommer, Community Engagement and Outreach Specialist. Engler and Sommer share their backgrounds, professional journeys, and the roles they have undertaken in the family business which operates over 250 Taco Bell restaurants with 7,000 employees. Sommer details her transition from various positions in Chicago to a year-long stint at a Taco Bell restaurant, eventually moving into community engagement. Engler discusses his expansive journey from failing out of college twice to taking on multiple roles within Border Foods to eventually leading it for nearly 20 years. They explore the entrepreneurial spirit, governance, and family dynamics that define Border Foods. The discussion highlights key values like family, teamwork, and accountability, and emphasizes the importance of communication in family businesses. They also discuss initiatives such as a unique two-story drive-thru Taco Bell named 'Defy' and their generous community outreach efforts.