In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser takes a deep dive into the rise of Layne’s Chicken Fingers, one of the fastest-growing brands in the QSR space. Kathy sits down with Garrett Reed, CEO of Layne’s, and Eli Cohen, a rapidly expanding multi-unit franchisee, to explore their journeys, their philosophies, and the culture that makes Layne’s Chicken Fingers stand out.

Garrett shares how his roots in College Station and his extensive career in commercial real estate development with Starbucks, Corner Bakery, Dunkin’ Donuts, Radio Shack, and Zale’s prepared him to steward Layne’s into its next era. After co-founding Main & Main Capital Group and developing more than 200 franchise units across 37 states, he purchased the iconic College Station chicken shack in 2016. Since then, he has elevated operations, opened multiple corporate locations across DFW, and set an ambitious goal: 100 Layne’s Chicken Fingers restaurants in the next five years. Garrett also explains the beloved Astro Chicken concept and how it embodies the brand’s values, quality, and guest experience.

Eli brings a franchisee’s perspective to the conversation. As Founder and Operator of C5 Restaurants, he leads one of the country’s strongest Fazoli’s platforms and is actively developing Smalls Sliders and Layne’s Chicken Fingers across West Texas. With a background in real estate investment banking at Citigroup, private-sector development at the World Bank, and more than $600 million in real estate acquired through Cohen Rojas Capital Partners, Eli describes his transition into franchising and why Layne’s culture, support, and product made it the perfect fit.

Together, Garrett and Eli unpack what makes a successful franchisee, the role culture plays in brand growth, and why Layne’s Chicken Fingers is poised to become a national favorite. Their enthusiasm for the food, the franchise partners, and the future is unmistakable.

Topics Covered:

· The Challenges and Learnings of Franchising

· Layne's Unique Brand and Culture

· The Complexity of Space Travel

· Balancing Technical and Laid-Back Approaches

· Franchising as a Growth Strategy

· Qualities of a Successful Franchisee

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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!, Dr. Kathy Gosser sits down with Brian Goldstein, President and Owner of Fulenwider Enterprises, to explore one of the most remarkable career journeys in the restaurant industry. Brian started at Taco Bell at just 16½ years old and worked his way up through nearly every leadership position imaginable, ultimately serving as COO of KFC and leading its national operations turnaround.

After 32 years in corporate leadership, Brian switched to the franchisee side, where he now is partial owner of Fulenwider Enterprises, which operates nearly 160 Taco Bell and KFC locations across the Southeast. He shares how he built a winning culture rooted in respect, people development, and operational excellence. Brian also breaks down the keys to a high-performing franchise system, the value of strong franchisor relationships, and what it truly takes to grow a thriving multi-unit organization.

Listeners will hear Brian’s insights on:

• Brian's Journey from Taco Bell employee to being a KFC Corporate Success
• Balancing Family and Business
• The ‘Best On Block’ Philosophy
• What Makes a Great Franchisor
• Serving on Franchisee Boards
• Advice for Aspiring Franchisees
• Challenges of Franchise Ownership

Beyond business, Brian shares a look into his life in Belmont, NC, where he enjoys time outdoors with his wife Barbara, their three children, and four grandchildren. From gardening and ATV riding to supporting military families, St. Jude, Boys & Girls Clubs, and hunger relief efforts, Brian’s commitment to service extends far beyond the restaurants he leads.

This episode is packed with leadership lessons, heartfelt stories, and practical advice for anyone looking to grow in franchising—or inspire their teams to greatness.

Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows.

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 graphic designer to CEO of a national family of franchise brands, Ryan Parsons has built a career defined by creativity and purpose. As the co-founder of the ‘Brothers That Just Do Gutters’ and now CEO of Evive Brands, Ryan shares how he's leading five franchise systems that help people live and thrive from home care to home improvement.

From graphic designer to CEO of a national family of franchise brands, Ryan Parsons has built a career fueled by creativity, purpose, and grit. As the co-founder of The Brothers That Just Do Gutters and current CEO of Evive Brands, Ryan leads five franchise systems that help people live better — from home care to home improvement.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser talks with Ryan about his incredible journey from a small family business to leading a thriving group of franchise brands with more than 1,000 territories across the country. Together, they discuss how Ryan and his brother turned a local gutter company into a trusted national brand — and how that same passion now drives his leadership at Evive Brands.

Ryan opens up about building companies with heart, staying true to your purpose, and leading through transparency. He also shares insights on the power of strong branding, franchise growth, and adapting to new technology like AI. Plus, he explains why understanding unit economics and culture is key when expanding from one franchise brand to many.

Ryan Parsons’ story is one of perseverance, vision, and continuous learning — and a great reminder that with purpose and persistence, creativity can grow into something truly life-changing.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

· Ryan Parsons' Amazing Franchising Journey

· Challenges and Growth in Franchising

· Franchise Royalty and Territory Management

· Transparency in Franchise Operations

· Growth Strategies

· Qualities of Successful Franchisees

· Implementing AI in Business

· Parsons’ Proudest Achievements and Business Advice

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 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? That is all part of my guest's incredible journey. Today I am joined by Nicholas Jewel, who is a decorated veteran-turned-entrepreneur, and now a multi-unit franchisee of Crumbl Cookies. While earning two Bronze stars as a combat controller in the Air National Guard, Nicholas led with courage, innovation, and resilience. Now he is channeling those skills into one of the fastest growing brands in franchising. You will hear how he made the leap from the military to franchising and what it takes to grow multiple units. You will also hear his advice for anyone dreaming of entrepreneurship, please take a listen.

Nicholas Jewell is a multi-unit Crumbl Cookies franchisee in the Louisville Metro area. Nicholas’s path to franchising is anything but ordinary, spanning military service, entrepreneurship, logistics, and now cookie domination. He 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 the University of Louisville, and was recognized as a Louisville Business First 40 Under 40 honoree. Today, he is preparing to open his third Crumbl Cookies location, with plans for more growth on the horizon.

What You’ll Learn In This Episode:

• Why franchising is not truly “passive income”—and the reality behind scaling a brand.
• How Nicholas's military background shaped his approach to teamwork, resilience, and leadership.
• The unique appeal of Crumbl Cookies’ open kitchen, rotating menu, and tech-driven customer experience.
• Advice for veterans considering franchising or entrepreneurship.
• Nicholas’s “3 C’s of Leadership”: Being Clear, Consistent, and Caring.
• The balance between corporate systems and local community engagement in 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.

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.