Free Agent with Meg Schmitz

Heather Smith, a former healthcare executive turned stay-at-home mom, transitioned to entrepreneurship by taking on the unexpected challenge of owning a gluten-free bakery. Her decision to pivot into business ownership was fueled by a long-standing desire to be an entrepreneur. However, taking over a bakery right before the busy holiday season presented unfamiliar challenges for Heather and her fa...

Jessi Brelsford, the mastermind behind Taste Buds Kitchen, brings a refreshing twist to the entrepreneurial journey. Hailing from a background in economics and a successful stint on Wall Street, her pivot to creating a space for culinary experiences is both intriguing and motivational.

Uncover the unexpected journey of a trailblazing pioneer in hospice and palliative care.  Jackie Holland, a founder of a palliative care foundation, and Meg's Mom, shares her compassionate story that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the impact of palliative and hopsice care. Understanding palliative and hospice care will equip you to work through end- of- life situations with family...

Listen in as Nina Copeland, a former army veteran, shares her raw and real journey from the military to entrepreneurship. From battling silent resentments at home to overcoming the fear of failure and success, Nina's story will inspire and empower you.

Have you been told to just keep pushing through the loneliness of entrepreneurship, but deep down, you're feeling isolated and demoralized? The struggle is real, but there's a better way. Join Meg Schmitz and guest Kasie Valenti as they share the invaluable strategies and insights that will empower you on your entrepreneurial journey. Let's talk about overcoming loneliness in entrepreneurship and...

Discover how Micah Keith, a corporate refugee turned entrepreneur, navigated the complexities of franchising and faced unexpected challenges, including falling victim to a scam. But that's not all – this entrepreneur is on the path to building an empire of six units, all while involving family in the business. The journey is just beginning, and the future holds exciting growth and expansion. Stay...

In this episode of the Free Agent podcast, franchise consultant and host Meg Schmitz takes the spotlight to share her journey as she re-enters the world of franchise ownership with IMAGE Studios, a salon suite concept. Meg reflects on franchise ownership as she nears the grand opening of her first IMAGE Studios suite location in Wauwatosa, WI. From her love of the beauty industry to the importance...

If you are stuck on your journey of self-actualization, this episode is for you. Meet Dr. Shakkiah Curtis, a bold and fearless entrepreneur who began her journey into business at 17. Now a successful and confident business consultant, mentor, entrepreneur, mother of two, podcaster, and public speaker, Dr. Curtis shows no signs of letting up the gas pedal. How does she do it, and what's behind her...

Get ready to dive into a conversation that delves deep into the heart of entrepreneurship. You might think you know what it takes to thrive in business ownership, but the real stories shared here will challenge your assumptions. From unexpected insights to valuable lessons, this podcast episode with Jeff Dudan, Ceo and Chairman of Homefront Brands, will leave you wanting more. 

Karen Abrams, an accomplished real estate attorney, returns as a guest on the podcast, bringing her wealth of expertise in franchising and real estate transactions. With a strong background in representing business owners, Karen shares valuable insights on real estate strategies for franchise owners, expanding businesses while balancing full-time careers, and identifying investment opportunities w...

Meet Robyn Bowles, a corporate refugee who jumped into the deep end of discomfort by moving across the country with no network in place to start a business where she knew NOBODY. This was Robyn's catalyst for creating a new life, finding balance in uncertainty, and taking control of her life in meaningful ways.

What if I told you the key to thriving in entrepreneurship lies in a surprisingly unconventional source? Join me as we uncover the unexpected secrets to business success in this eye-opening conversation with Brad Herda, a Midwesterner and straight shooter. Get ready to challenge your assumptions and discover the real deal about transitioning into entrepreneurship from a no B.S business coach. Stay...

 Meg Schmitz sits down with Kerrie Hoffman, a former corporate executive turned successful entrepreneur. Dive into their intimate conversation as Kerrie shares her bold transition from corporate life to business ownership. This episode provides invaluable insights for any executive contemplating a similar leap into entrepreneurship.

Devan Kline, the co-founder of Burn Boot Camp, is no ordinary franchisor. His rags-to-riches tale is filled with universal truths, self-discovery, and ambition. Discover the unconventional strategies this entrepreneur used to skyrocket their business and how you can apply them to your venture. Get ready to learn from a true maverick in the franchise industry, and brace yourself for some eye-openin...

Discover the surprising way my guest, Mark Zucker, navigates business dynamics and challenges with his co-founder wife. Find out how they manage a business 8000 miles away and the unexpected role their family plays in their operations. Are you curious about the unique strategies they use to maintain business continuity and personal alignment? Stay tuned to uncover how Mark manages the business whi...

Discover the unexpected truth about the franchising world with my guest, Sung Ohm, the CEO of FranDevCo. In this episode, for the first time, Sung Ohm shares his family's entrepreneurial journey.  Sung shares how those failures and challenges now define the company culture at FranDevCo, enabling them to transform the lives of their franchise owners. Get ready to gain valuable insights from Sung's...

Are you ready to uncover the unexpected truth behind salon suite ownership? Dive into a revealing conversation that unveils the untold story of how a beauty professional transitioned from big salon ownership to solo suite success. Get ready to be surprised and intrigued as you learn the financial secrets from the very heart of the beauty industry. Stay tuned for an eye-opening revelation that will...

Discover the surprising story of Fred Tomlin Jr. and Sherrod Hunter, two entrepreneurs, who revolutionized the waste industry with a technology-driven approach. From failed beginnings to mushroom cloud growth, their journey is a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance. But what's the unexpected twist that took their business from junk removal to a full-blown technological powerhouse?...

Discover how Angela Olea created the first franchise in the US for senior care placement, carving a path in an industry with no roadmap. Uncover the surprising strategies she used to accelerate learning, avoid mistakes, and discover the unexpected talent one of her franchisees exhibited at a conference. Stay tuned for an  eye-opening conversation.

Meg Schmitz sits down with Calvin Parsons, a dynamic former military officer who recently ventured into franchise ownership with Kidokinetics. Delve into Calvin's transformative journey from the structured world of the military and corporate America to the exhilarating realm of entrepreneurship. Discover the crucial decisions and bold steps he took to reshape his career and personal destiny. What...

Have you ever felt stuck in a cycle of opening and closing doors, unsure if you could take the leap into starting your own business? Maybe you've been told to just stick to what's already out there and not pursue your unique idea. The frustration of not finding the right opportunity and feeling trapped in the corporate world can be overwhelming. But what if there's a way to break free, take contro...

If you need more certainty about the future of brick-and-mortar retail spaces in the post-pandemic era, then you are not alone! The fear of evolving shopping center trends and the impact of market shifts on retail bankruptcies may leave you  with  unease. You might wonder how to navigate the changing tenant mix and leasing strategies successfully. But don't worry; effective strategies and insights...

An attorney with an arts background? Who would have thought! Discover how this lawyer seamlessly blends creativity with the law, creating a unique and fulfilling career path. Does she have the key to balancing personal passions with business success? Find out more in this eye-opening conversation. My special guest is Elissa Hecker Elissa Hecker, Esquire, is a dynamic attorney with a fascinating ba...

Discover the surprising truth about the risks of relying on a single income source. Unearth the eye-opening journey of a corporate refugee who found financial freedom through diversification. Learn how she leveraged passive income to minimize taxes and create a life of abundance. But that's just the beginning; stay tuned for the unexpected twist that will change your perspective on wealth creation...

If you're feeling the weight of transitioning from the military to civilian life, trying to find your footing in the entrepreneurial world, and facing unexpected challenges, then you are not alone! The struggle to adapt to a new identity and navigate the complexities of starting a business can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling lost and uncertain about the future. My special guest is Zack Husted...