From A to Franchisee: The Podcast for Smarter Franchise Buying

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of "From A to Franchisee," we delve into the 2026 list of top franchises for women, celebrating female franchise owners and the brands that support them. Our host, joined by frequent guest and producer Allison Dudas, explores the unique methodology behind the rankings, emphasizing that no brand can pay to be on the list. Instead, the rankings are based on...

Send us Fan Mail Join Michelle Rowan and Anthony Byrd in this episode of "From A to Franchisee" as they unravel the complexities of SBA loans for franchise buyers. Discover how SBA loans serve as a government-backed security for banks, making it easier for new businesses to secure funding. Anthony Byrd, a seasoned expert in franchising and SBA lending, dispels common myths about these lo...

Send us Fan Mail Unlock the secrets of top-performing franchisees in this insightful episode. Discover how these leaders achieve consistent success, even in challenging markets, by treating their franchise like a CEO-run business and following proven systems. Join Allison Dudas from Franchise Business Review as she shares real stories from award-winning franchisees across various industries, revea...

Send us Fan Mail Discover what it’s really like to join a franchise in its early stages through the firsthand insights of Tom Winspear. Learn about the advantages, challenges, and strategies for success when entering an emerging brand, plus tips on assessing and building a strong franchise community. Resources Listen: Announcing the Top 200 Franchises of 2026 Listen: Understanding the Franchise Di...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Ashley Vetek shares her journey from military service to successful multi-unit franchise owner of Tutu School, focusing on the unique opportunities and challenges in the children’s enrichment space. Whether you're considering entering this sector or interested in franchise ownership, Ashley's insights are invaluable. Resources Listen: Industry Spotlight...

Send us Fan Mail This episode delves into the role of a franchise business consultant (FBC), featuring guest Maria Heatherington from Massage Luxe. The discussion highlights the FBC's role as a strategic partner and coach for franchise owners, helping them operate smoothly and profitably while aligning with the brand. Maria shares insights into her journey from managing a tanning salon franch...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of "From A to Franchisee," Michelle Rowan interviews Carli Sonntag, a franchise owner in the tutoring space, specifically with Mathnasium. Carli shares her journey from working in media and teaching to owning a franchise, highlighting the blend of business acumen and mission-driven goals that led her to this path. She discusses the challenges and rewards...

Send us Fan Mail In this podcast episode, Michelle Rowan speaks with representatives from two distinct franchise systems about the importance of training and support. First up is Scott Koepf from Cruise Planners, a home-based travel franchise. Secondly, Steven Schenck shares his perspective from 360clean, a commercial cleaning franchise. They discuss the initial training brands may offer, and the...

Send us Fan Mail Host: Michelle Rowan, President of Franchise Business Review Guest: Paige Robinson Dosch, VP Franchise Resales, Unleashed Brands The podcast episode features Michelle Rowan and Paige Robinson Dosch discussing the intricacies of buying and selling franchise businesses. Paige, the VP of Franchise Resales at Unleashed Brands, shares her expertise on the benefits and challenges of acq...

Send us Fan Mail Host: Michelle Rowan, President of Franchise Business Review Guest: Allison Dudas, B2C Senior Marketing Manager at Franchise Business Review Episode Summary In this episode of "From A to Franchisee," Michelle Rowan, President of Franchise Business Review, unveils the much-anticipated "FBR's Top 200 Franchises of 2026." This exclusive list is unique in the...

Send us Fan Mail Host: Michelle Rowan of Franchise Business Review Guest: Madeleine Zook, CMO | Multi-Unit/Multi-Brand Franchisee Summary: In this episode, Michelle Rowan and Madeleine Zook delve into the crucial role of talking to franchisees before investing in a franchise investment. Madeleine emphasizes that speaking with current franchisees provides invaluable insights into the realities of r...

Send us Fan Mail Host: Michelle Rowan, President and COO of Franchise Business Review Guest: Eric Stites, Founder and CEO of Franchise Business Review Episode Summary: The Journey of Starting Franchise Business Review Introduction: Twenty years ago, a light bulb moment sparked the creation of Franchise Business Review. Eric Stites, then working with franchise marketing, noticed a gap in the indust...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of "From A to Franchisee," Michelle Rowan interviews Mitch Wallace, a franchisee with Caring Senior Services, to explore the journey of transforming an existing senior care business into a franchise. Mitch shares his personal story of entering the senior care industry, driven by the need to care for his own family members. Initially starting as an indepen...

Send us Fan Mail In this podcast episode, Michelle Rowan interviews Mike Jones, a franchisee in the business services industry, specifically with Sandler, a well-known brand in training and sales development. The discussion delves into the unique aspects of owning a business services franchise, highlighting the transition from traditional business ownership to a franchise model. Mike shares his jo...

Send us Fan Mail Host: Michelle Rowan, President & COO of Franchise Business Review Guests: Russ O'Rear, Franchisee of Travelin' Tom's Truck and Kona Ice since 2019, Tim Valiant, Franchisee of Travelin' Tom's and Kona Ice since 2012 Episode Summary of Industry Spotlight: Mobile Food Franchisees This podcast episode from "A to Franchisee" delves into the world...

Send us Fan Mail In this podcast episode, Michelle Rowan hosts a discussion with Vik Sreedhar and Supriya, franchise owners of Amazing Athletes in San Jose. The conversation explores their journey into the child enrichment franchise sector, highlighting their transition from previous careers in pharmacy and tech sales to owning a business that aligns with their family lifestyle. They discuss the c...

Send us Fan Mail Host: Michelle Rowan, President and COO of Franchise Business Review Guest: Michael Iannuzzi,  Episode Summary In this podcast episode, Michelle Rowan discusses the importance of having an exit strategy in franchising with guest Michael Iannuzzi, a partner at Citrin Cooperman. They emphasize that it's never too early to plan your exit strategy, as it helps avoid future surpri...

Send us Fan Mail This episode focuses on the concept of "Discovery Days" in the franchise industry, where potential franchisees meet with franchisors to validate their interest in a brand. Michelle Rowan hosts the discussion with guests Rob Lancit, Marci Kleinsasser, and Jordan Wilson, each representing different franchise models. They explore various approaches to Discovery Days, includ...

Send us Fan Mail Host: Michelle Rowan, President and COO of Franchise Business Review Guest: Eric Stites, Founder and CEO of Franchise Business Review Summary of How Much Money Can You Make Owning A Franchise? In this episode of From A to Franchisee , Michelle Rowan and Eric Stites discuss the financial aspects of owning a franchise. They address the common question of how much money one can make...

Send us Fan Mail Host: Michelle Rowan, COO and President of Franchise Business Review Guest: Ali Kraus, CMO of Benetrends Financial and Vice Chair of IFA's Women in Franchising Committee Episode Summary: In this engaging podcast episode, Michelle Rowan welcomes back Ali Kraus, the first repeat guest, to discuss the evolving landscape of women in franchising. They explore the progress and chal...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Michelle Rowan and Toni Harris-Taylor discuss the importance of diversity in franchising. Toni, a dynamic leader in the franchise world, emphasizes the need for awareness and inclusivity, debunking myths about financial barriers for minorities entering franchising. They explore the lack of representation at franchise events and the need for franchisors to engage w...

Send us Fan Mail Host: Michelle Rowan of Franchise Business Review Guest: Madeleine Zook, CMO of Threshold Brands and Multi-Unit/Multi-Brand Franchisee Summary: In this episode, Michelle Rowan and Madeleine Zook delve into the crucial role of engaging with franchisees before committing to a franchise investment. Madeleine emphasizes that speaking with current franchisees provides invaluable insigh...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Michelle Rowan and Courtney Stillings discuss the complexities of franchising, focusing on the recent controversies surrounding Dickey's Barbecue. They explore the importance of transparency, the need for thorough research before investing in a franchise, and the critical role of support from franchisors. The conversation highlights the red flags potential fr...

Send us Fan Mail Host: Michelle Rowan, President and COO of Franchise Business Review Guest: Tom Spadea, Franchise Attorney of Spadea Lignana LLC Episode Summary In this insightful episode, Michelle Rowan and franchise attorney Tom Spadea delve into the intricacies of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). They explore its critical components, such as litigation history, initial fees, and financ...

Send us Fan Mail In this insightful episode, Michelle Rowan and Paul Pickett delve into the essential traits that define a successful franchisee. Drawing from decades of experience, Paul shares his expertise on the importance of aligning with a brand's culture, mission, and values. They discuss the critical role of emotional intelligence, team-building, and a growth mindset in achieving long-...