Ewell Smith

Close The Deal Podcast

Business EN ↓ 144 episodes

Most people aren’t stuck—they’re living with broken promises to themselves. This is where that changes. The Close The Deal Podcast features real conversations with high achievers who are facing the decisions they’ve been avoiding and committing to what comes next. Hosted by Ewell Smith. Visit www. CloseTheDeal.com to put you name on the Close The Deal Board

Author

Ewell Smith

Category

Business

Podcast website

www.closethedeal.com

Latest episode

Jun 2, 2026

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Episodes

What’s the secret behind MARUFUKU Ramen’s long lines? #84 Close The Deal 27.02.2025

In this episode of the Close The Deal podcast - Franchise Profits episode, I sit down with Carlos Herrador , EVP of Franchise Operations at Marufuku Ramen. With 42 years of franchise experience , Carlos shares what makes a franchise thrive, how Marufuku Ramen became a powerhouse brand, and why quality and consistency are the keys to success. From franchise support to real estate selection and cust...

From Fear to Franchise: The Face Foundry Story W/ Michele Henry #83 Close The Deal 24.02.2025

Michelle Henry, founder of Face Foundry Franchise , went from struggling with skincare solutions to revolutionizing the beauty industry . In this episode of Your First Franchise , we dive into her entrepreneurial mindset, growth strategies, and what it takes to build a successful franchise . She shares: ✔️ How she overcame fear to launch and scale her business ✔️ The secret to attracting loyal cus...

Force Multiplier Effect: Scaling Purpose & Growth W/ Eric Thompson #82 Close The Deal 18.02.2025

In this episode of Close The Deal , Eric Thompson shares the mindset shifts and leadership principles that help entrepreneurs and leaders multiply their success . As the founder of Lift Leadership and CMO of Snooze Mattress Company , Eric breaks down self-mastery, purpose-driven leadership, and force multipliers in business and life . 🔥 Key Takeaways: Purpose is the ultimate force multiplier—here...

How To Turn Chaos To Calm - Work - Kids- Stress W/ Dr. Kate Lund #81 Close The Deal 12.02.2025

Balancing Career, Parenting & Stress: Dr. Kate Lund on Resilience Life is a juggling act—especially for busy professionals and parents trying to manage careers, families, and personal well-being. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Kate Lund , a clinical psychologist, best-selling author, and resilience expert, to talk about how to build mental toughness, reduce stress, and find balance in th...

Launching Entrepreneurs: Inside Loyola University’s Startup Program W/ Sam McCabe #80 Close The Deal 11.02.2025

In this episode, Sam McCabe , Director of Loyola University’s Entrepreneurship & Community Development Center , shares insights on launching and scaling a business. We dive into: ✅ Why the right team is everything ✅ The power of empathy in entrepreneurship ✅ Lessons from the music industry that apply to business ✅ How Loyola’s program equips future entrepreneurs 💡 "You can't do...

Get Shrunked! One of the FUNNEST Side Hustles Possible (or full time) #79 Close The Deal 06.02.2025

In this episode, I sit down with Tom Hodgson , co-founder and brand president of Shrunk 3D , a one-of-a-kind entertainment franchise that’s turning heads and making waves. Imagine a portable 3D scanning booth that captures stunningly detailed mini replicas of people, pets, and even sports mascots—whether for fun, business, or memorabilia. 🎯 What You’ll Learn: ✅ The unique business model behind S...

How to Close More Deals Over Dinner, Gain Clarity and Build Connections: Chef Christian Fischer #78 Close The Deal 05.02.2025

Clarity Matters: The Key to Success 🎙 In this episode of Close The Deal , I sit down with Chef Christian Fischer , CEO of Fisher Research Group, to explore how clarity, mindset, and strategy can transform careers and businesses—whether you’re a chef, entrepreneur, or business leader. Chef Fischer reveals his unique approach to closing deals over a meal , the power of disruptive thinking , and why...

The Shutter House Franchise: A Low-Investment Opportunity - Edward Terry #77 Close The Deal 15.01.2025

The Shutter House Franchise: A Low-Investment Opportunity 🎙️ On this episode of Your First Franchise , we sit down with Edward Terry, the visionary behind The Shutter House Franchise . Hear how he scaled his business to a franchise model that’s both affordable and rewarding for franchisees. 💡 What You’ll Learn: Why this niche business is in high demand How The Shutter House offers low investment...

How To Command Huge Attention In 2025 With Josh York - CEO of GYMGUYZ - CTD #76 10.01.2025

In this episode of Close the Deal , Josh York, the unstoppable founder and CEO of GymGuyz, returns to the podcast for a second time to share his game-changing insights. Known for his bold tactics and unshakable mindset, Josh talks about how to command attention, think creatively, and cultivate the discipline needed to succeed. From sending truck tires to CEOs to building one of the fastest-growing...

Master Your Mind With Julio Melara #75 Close The Deal 05.01.2025

Julio Melara, CEO of Baton Rouge Business Report, shares why mindset is so important. This was actually our very first podcast under a different name - the Absolutely Mindset Podcast. It set the stage for every podcast episode we've done since. As we enter 2025 and close in on 100 episodes this year, we thought this would be an awesome way to kick off the year.  3 takeaways on this episode of...

How to Invest in Your First Franchise in 2025: Ewell Smith #31 Archive - Close The Deal 27.12.2024

Exclusive Interview: W2 Prison Break Show Host Brian O'Neill Talks with Franchise Consultant and Host of the CloseTheDeal. Com Podcast Ewell Smith 5 takeaways Ewell shares from his guest appearance on the W2 Prison Break Show.  (Your First Franchise  special edition): The  "ulcer moment" wake-up call at age 24  Finding gratitude Leading trade associations and rebuilding billions in...

How To Thrive In 2025 with Meridith Powell #74 Close The Deal 17.12.2024

Meridith Powell, Chair of the National Speakers Association reveals key insights from her new book, Thrive: Strategies to Turn Uncertainty to Competitive Advantage 3 takeaways on this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast:  👉 Focus on What You Can Control:   "Success isn’t logical—it’s about mindset, not circumstances. The brain is wired for negativity, but when you shift focus to what you c...

Biohazard Cleanup Franchise Opportunity - Stephanie Ruby #73 Your First Franchise Edition 15.12.2024

Stephanie Ruby shares  how Bio-One Franchise is a fast start up, low investment opportunity that makes big impact. 3 Takeaways on This Episode of Close The Deal Podcast: 👉 "Activity breeds results." Consistent effort and engagement, even if you're not perfect at first, will always lead to growth and success in your business. 👉 "You’re not just in business—you’re in service.&q...

Big Territories, Big Dreams with Painter1; Jason Leber #72 Close The Deal (Your FirstFranchise) 12.12.2024

Jason Leber, Co-Founder of Painter 1 Franchise shares 3 big factors igniting their growth on this episode of Close The Deal (Your First Franchise Episode): 👉 "Empower the Owner" Philosophy   PainterOne stands out by prioritizing franchisees with their larger-than-average territories and a 10% owner equity pool. These unique perks ensure owners have the space to grow and share in the sys...

How To Open A Gym That Caters To Executives (High ROI) : Jeff Tomaszewski #71 Close The Deal 08.12.2024

Jeff Tomaszewski, CEO of Max Strength Fitness shares how you can start a niche franchise gym that caters to executives that provides a high ROI. Jeff Tomaszewski shares 3 takeaways on this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast (Your First Franchise Episode): Systems Scale, Passion Fuels Growth: Document every process, from answering calls to delivering services, to build a business that’s scalable...

5 Money Mistakes Contractors Make (& How To FIX Them!) Alex Little #70 Close The Deal 01.12.2024

Alex Little, founder of Little Financial, shares how to fix 5 money crushing cash flow mistakes contractors make every day.... 3 takeaways on this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast:  Cash Flow Forecasting is Crucial: Accurate cash flow forecasting and bookkeeping are essential for business survival. Without them, you can't make informed financial decisions or ensure profitability. Detaile...

11 Deadly Billboard Mistakes to Avoid Before You Invest - Eric Murr #69 Close The Deal 21.11.2024

 Eric Murr, VP of  Kegerreis Outdoor, shares 11 deadly billboard mistakes to avoid when investing in outdoor advertising.   3 takeaways on this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast:  👉 Billboards Amplify, They Don’t Fix Broken Brands Eric emphasized that advertising cannot fix foundational problems in your business. Before investing in billboards, ensure your customer experience and online reput...

HowTo Build Your E-Commerce Side Hustle W/ Casey Boshae #68 Close The Deal 18.11.2024

Casey Boshae, founder of The Gentle Pit,  shares  how her journey as a wine rep with an e-commerce side hustle evolved into time freedom. 3 takeaways on this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast:  👉"Start with the end in mind." Define your ideal lifestyle and design your e-commerce business to align with it. 👉"Solve a real problem." Your product doesn’t need to reinvent the...

Is Your Business Ready to Franchise? 3 Myths Busted! W/ Mike Polluck #67 Close The Deal 01.11.2024

Mike Polluck, CEO of Franlift, busts 3 common myths about franchising your business. In short, is your business franchisable?  3 takeaways on this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast:  👉 Know Your Ideal Franchisee: Identifying franchisees who align with your brand’s values, have the required skills, and are committed to growth is essential. The right partners can drive success and uphold your b...

Pure Green’s Simple Franchise Model for Big Returns #66 CTD's Your First Franchise 21.10.2024

Ross Franklin, CEO of Pure Green Franchise,  shares 3 takeaways on this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast (Your First Franchise Episode):  Scalable Simplicity: Pure Green’s franchise model is designed for growth without complexity. Franchisees can easily manage operations while focusing on delivering high-quality health products, creating a scalable business with strong margins. Health and Wel...

Franchise Success Playbook: Lessons from Shane Evans of Massage Heights #65 Close The Deal 05.10.2024

Shane Evans , the founder of Massage Heights shares what makes thier brand so successful: Shane shares 3 takeaways on this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast (Your First Franchise Episode):  Turnkey Franchise System: Massage Heights offers a complete, plug-and-play franchise model. They handle everything from real estate to equipment setup, allowing franchisees to focus on marketing and buildin...

How "Unreasonable Hospitality" Drives Success #64 Close The Deal 30.09.2024

Steve and Tracie Shatkin share how "Unreasonable Hospitality" drives coffee shop success... 3 Value Bombs: Invest in Long-Term Relationships with Franchisees The interview emphasizes how crucial it is to build trust and long-term relationships with franchisees. Success in franchising doesn’t come from simply selling franchises; it comes from understanding your franchisees' needs, pr...

Master LinkedIn Like a Pro & Avoid These Simple Mistakes: Adam Houlahan #63 Close The Deal 25.08.2024

Adam Houlahan shares the latest Linkedin updates with Ewell Smith.  Discover how to leverage them to drive more sales leads to close more deals. 3 takeaways on this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast:  👉Optimize Your Profile for Visibility: Craft a compelling LinkedIn profile headline and summary that clearly communicates your value proposition, making it easier for potential clients and partn...

Franchise Fuel: How Ziebart's Automotive Innovations Drive Profit #62 Close The Deal 23.08.2024

Mike Riley with Ziebart shares 3 takeaways on this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast (Your First Franchise Episode):  👉Ziebart’s Global Expansion: With 1,300 locations in 37 countries, Ziebart has successfully evolved from its origins in rust protection to offering a wide range of automotive services, driving global franchise success. 👉Adapting to Market Needs: Ziebart customizes its service...

Attention and Branding: Real Estate Essentials W/ Mike Cuevas #61 Close The Deal 14.08.2024

E xecute the basics of personal  branding and gaining attention so you can not only survive the big changes coming; but,  thrive closing more deals. (especially real estate agents) Mike Cuevas is founder of Referral Sweet and an expert on creating referral based sales. 3 takeaways on this episode of the Close The Deal Podcast:  Personal Branding is Everything: Your reputation and personal brand ar...

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