Thirteen years ago, I made a total career change, stepping away from a highly-compensated executive role at a worldwide corporation to buy a master franchise in a new-to-me industry. It’s fair to say I didn’t put my toe into the world of franchising to check the temperature. Nope. I hurled myself off the high dive. After that, it was sink or swim, with nothing less than the financial health of my family and the future shape of my career at stake. 

In 2020, countless industries and business models went into slowdown or lockdown mode, trying to find a new normal in a world that was, well, not normal. Like everyone else, franchisors, franchisees, and their employees strove to find their way through a tough time. So it was a bit of a surprise, even for those of us with experience and deep knowledge in this space, when 2021 brought what the International Franchise Association’s annual economic outlook called an “exceptional year” of rapid recovery. Faster than anyone could have predicted, franchising was back in business! 

We’re in an era when a slew of workers have had all they can take of the hardships of traditional jobs. They’re dissatisfied with their pay, with their benefits, with the way they’re treated at the office, and with not having the flexibility to create some semblance of work/life balance. 

Pete and Nat are joined by a very special guest this week. Another podcast host and franchisee! Ray Pillar of Molly Maids in Aurora, Illinois comes on to discuss why he became a franchisee and why it is often the right choice for others.

Have you heard of the "Silver Tsunami"? As Baby Boomers age, they will need more and more help.

Would you believe that during the coronavirus pandemic, franchises added over new 1200 locations? It is incredible to think that during the most significant economic downturn in decades, franchises were still expanding, and people still wanted to own a franchise. Many of the concepts that saw the largest growth were newcomers.

To kick off our first episode of 2021, Nat and Pete talk with Mark Titcomb of Floor Coverings International.

Green energy will be huge and insulation is a great way to help the environment.

We all clean–or we hire someone to do it. Not all services are the same though. Ecomaids offers a very unique service of eco-friendly cleaning. No harsh chemicals are used, but a proprietary, all-natural product and skill are used to make sure your house it germ free.

No sport or school program ever has enough money, and coaches and teachers aren't taught how to fundraise in college.