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The Business Growth Show

The Business Growth Show

By: Ford Saeks
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 Welcome to The Business Growth Show, where each week we bring you in-depth interviews with the leading voices in business success. Hosted by Ford Saeks, the show provides valuable insights and strategies for entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone looking to grow their brand. From top CEOs to experts in sales, marketing, operations, customer experience, entrepreneurship, and success, our guests share their personal experiences, lessons learned, and advice to help you achieve your goals. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, The Business Growth Show offers practical and actionable advice to help you take your business to the next level. Tune in and join Ford as he explores the stories and strategies of the most successful business leaders of our time on The Business Growth Show.2024 Economics Marketing Marketing & Sales
Episodes
  • S1Ep239 Scaling Franchise Growth with Troy Hooper

    S1Ep239 Scaling Franchise Growth with Troy Hooper
    Jul 17 2025
    Scaling franchise growth in today’s competitive and tech-driven economy is no small feat. If you're a brand looking to expand nationally or internationally, how do you structure your business to support sustainable growth without sacrificing brand consistency or operational quality? That’s exactly the kind of question this week’s episode of Fordify LIVE! The Business Growth Show sets out to tackle. This episode dives deep into the world of franchise development with Troy Hooper, CEO of Hot Palette America and one of the driving forces behind Pepper Lunch’s rapid expansion throughout North America. With over three decades of experience in hospitality and restaurant operations, Troy has helped revitalize legacy brands, roll out high-performing new concepts, and build franchise systems that are not only scalable but also rooted in operational excellence. His leadership is responsible for adding over 85 new units to the Pepper Lunch pipeline in just a few short years—all while ensuring franchisees are set up for long-term success. Troy joins host Ford Saeks for a timely, high-impact discussion on what it really takes to build and scale a brand that performs in any market. They explore what brand leaders need to consider before pursuing franchise growth and why creating a strong infrastructure behind the scenes is just as critical as selecting the right franchisees. From building effective systems and processes to working with vendors and suppliers in a way that supports aggressive expansion, Troy pulls back the curtain on the realities of modern franchise leadership. If your goal is scaling franchise growth without losing the DNA that makes your brand special, this episode brings fresh insight from the trenches of the restaurant and hospitality world. The conversation also touches on what makes a franchise model work—and more importantly, what can cause it to stall out. With candid stories and sharp business strategy, Troy shares how his team built a system that works not just for today’s market but for the evolving consumer and tech landscape ahead. And while the episode centers on the restaurant industry, the strategies discussed are applicable to any brand serious about building something that lasts. Throughout the episode, Troy emphasizes the importance of leading with empathy, clarity, and a commitment to operational rigor. Whether you're working with a team of ten or managing hundreds of units across continents, the principles behind scaling franchise growth remain consistent: strong leadership, proven systems, strategic partnerships, and a mindset focused on constant improvement. Ford and Troy explore how businesses can prepare internally to support external expansion—and why the readiness of your infrastructure can make or break your ability to grow effectively. The episode also highlights how technology, including AI and automation, plays a growing role in franchise operations. From improving guest experience to scaling brand messaging at a local level, Troy shares how his team has adopted AI tools to stay ahead of the curve while still delivering on the core promise of hospitality. This conversation is a must for entrepreneurs, franchisors, and executives thinking about growth beyond their current footprint. It offers thought-provoking ideas and a refreshing look at what’s possible when you combine experience with innovation, and vision with execution. Don’t miss this impactful episode featuring Troy Hooper. The strategies discussed will shift the way you think about building your brand and give you a broader lens for what’s possible in today’s marketplace. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Never miss an episode of Fordify LIVE! Join us every Wednesday at 11AM Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. About Troy Hooper Troy Hooper is the CEO of Hot Palette America and a leading expert in franchise development and hospitality operations. With over 30 years in the industry, he has transformed underperforming restaurant brands, launched innovative new concepts, and built scalable franchise models that drive sustainable growth. As one of the global CEOs for Pepper Lunch, Troy is leading the brand’s expansion across North America, with over 85 new locations in development. He brings a sharp focus on operational excellence, strategic leadership, and brand integrity—ensuring that growth doesn't come at the expense of quality. Troy is also the host of The Pineapple Perspective Podcast, where he shares insights from his extensive experience in hospitality and franchising. To learn more about Troy and his work, visit: PepperLunchRestaurants.com The Pineapple Perspective Podcast About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator with a proven track record of driving over a billion dollars in sales for businesses ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies. With ...
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    42 mins
  • S1Ep238 Franchising a Better Future for Aging in Place with Sean Fitzgerald

    S1Ep238 Franchising a Better Future for Aging in Place with Sean Fitzgerald
    Jul 10 2025
    Aging in place is quickly becoming one of the most pressing issues for families, healthcare providers, and communities across the country. As the population ages and more seniors choose to stay in their homes longer, the question isn’t just how to support them medically—but how to ensure their living environments are safe, functional, and consistently maintained. For forward-thinking entrepreneurs and franchise leaders, this shift presents a unique opportunity to serve a growing market with lasting impact. Sean Fitzgerald, President of TruBlue Home Service Ally, brings over three decades of experience in franchising to one of the most timely and purpose-driven concepts in the space today. With a professional background that spans leading brands like BrightStar Senior Care, Wireless Zone, and FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers, Fitzgerald has consistently focused on scalable models that combine strong unit economics with meaningful community contributions. His leadership at TruBlue reflects that same commitment, channeling his expertise into a franchise system that addresses the overlooked but critical needs of the aging in place movement. TruBlue offers a franchise opportunity that stands out in the home services category by bridging the gap between traditional handyman services and senior care. While many brands focus on medical support, TruBlue is solving the other half of the aging in place equation: the home itself. Through scheduled maintenance, home modifications, and an emphasis on fall prevention, the company supports seniors in remaining independent for longer—while also appealing to busy homeowners who need trusted, high-quality home care without the risks of hiring unvetted contractors. What sets the model apart is its emphasis on proactive service. Rather than waiting for problems to arise, TruBlue franchisees provide ongoing maintenance solutions that prevent issues before they become costly or dangerous. The brand’s unique subscription-based service helps build lasting client relationships, reinforcing trust and reliability over time. This level of care not only supports aging in place goals, it positions the franchise as an essential partner for families navigating the challenges of senior living. The franchise’s growth has not come without obstacles. Awareness remains a significant hurdle, with many people unaware that services like TruBlue’s even exist. Seniors, in particular, are unlikely to initiate service calls, often due to pride or lack of awareness, making referral networks essential to the brand’s success. Fitzgerald emphasizes that partnerships with local medical professionals, senior care providers, and community organizations are key to market penetration. When referral sources understand the value TruBlue offers, the response is almost always the same: “Where have you been?” That resonance with referral partners is just one part of what’s fueling TruBlue’s expansion. The business has also tapped into the broader homeownership market, where busy professionals and growing families are seeking a trusted partner to help manage routine home maintenance. From gutter cleaning and lightbulb changes to seasonal repairs and safety assessments, TruBlue’s offerings simplify the homeowner experience. And with rising concerns over unlicensed contractors, customers are eager for a vetted, insured, and professional alternative. Fitzgerald credits much of the brand’s momentum to the franchisees themselves, encouraging each owner to become a trusted authority in their local community. Visibility is critical—whether that’s through speaking at senior centers, building relationships with realtors, or appearing on local news segments during fall prevention awareness campaigns. The mission is clear: establish the brand as a reliable ally in home safety and support the vision of aging in place with dignity and confidence. TruBlue’s rise reflects a larger trend in franchising, where brands rooted in purpose and driven by authentic connection are outperforming those chasing short-term gains. As aging in place continues to gain traction nationally, the demand for services that align with this lifestyle will only increase. For those exploring new franchise opportunities, TruBlue presents a compelling blend of recurring revenue, real community impact, and alignment with long-term demographic shifts. Aging in place is more than a healthcare challenge—it’s a business opportunity grounded in service, trust, and proactive care. TruBlue Home Service Ally is redefining what it means to grow a franchise brand with purpose, and for entrepreneurs who want to build something that matters, this model offers a blueprint worth watching. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes that spotlight the strategies, stories, and experts helping growth-minded leaders accelerate success. Join Fordify LIVE! every Wednesday at 11AM Central on your favorite social ...
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    38 mins
  • S1Ep237 Empowering Franchise Ownership with Alesia Visconti

    S1Ep237 Empowering Franchise Ownership with Alesia Visconti
    Jun 26 2025
    Franchise ownership is one of the most accessible and scalable paths to business success—but only when paired with the right strategy, guidance, and support. Alesia Visconti, CEO and President of FranServe, has built her career on making that path clearer, faster, and more impactful for aspiring entrepreneurs around the world. Alesia leads FranServe, the world’s largest franchise consulting and broker organization. Under her leadership, FranServe has grown into a powerhouse platform that connects people with franchise opportunities and equips them to become successful consultants themselves. Her work is redefining how the industry approaches business ownership, making it more inclusive, accessible, and future-focused. With over two decades of experience as a CEO, Visconti’s approach to franchise ownership is anything but theoretical. She began as a franchise consultant herself, quickly becoming a top producer. When the opportunity came to acquire FranServe in 2016, she seized it—and completely transformed the organization. What was once a small network is now a global leader in franchise development, with hundreds of consultants and a mission rooted in empowerment. Visconti’s approach is guided by a belief in personal freedom through business ownership. For many, franchise ownership provides the chance to control their future without starting from scratch. FranServe simplifies that journey by offering a structured, supported model with proven systems and a network of experts. This structure not only benefits the franchisees but also those looking to become franchise consultants—a role that has become increasingly valuable in the post-pandemic business landscape. Alesia also leads the charge in shaping the future of franchising through advocacy and education. She sits on several key committees within the International Franchise Association, including VetFran, the Diversity Institute, and the Legal Legislative Committee. She’s a frequent speaker in Washington, D.C., lobbying for laws that protect small business owners and promote ethical franchising. Beyond her executive role, Alesia is an author, speaker, and champion for women in franchising. Her recent book, The Pink Tsunami: Women's Rise in Franchising, shines a light on the increasing influence women have in the franchising space—and the barriers they continue to overcome. Through platforms like Franchise Dictionary Magazine, which she also acquired and revitalized, Alesia is giving a voice to both the seasoned and the emerging leaders of the industry. What sets Visconti apart is her balance of business acumen and personal mission. She founded FranAid, the philanthropic arm of FranServe, to give back to causes that align with the company’s values—including veteran support organizations, animal rescues, and cancer research. Her belief in doing well by doing good is woven into every layer of the company culture. In an era where entrepreneurship is being redefined, franchise ownership offers a tangible way to enter the business world with a blueprint. For those who don’t want to reinvent the wheel—but do want to drive it forward—franchising presents a proven, supported model with limitless potential. Visconti and FranServe are leading the movement to make that model more visible, more viable, and more inclusive than ever before. Franchise ownership isn’t just about products and services—it’s about people. It’s about helping individuals take control of their time, their income, and their impact. With leaders like Alesia Visconti driving innovation, advocacy, and opportunity, the future of franchising is not just strong—it’s wide open. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes featuring powerful conversations and actionable insights from today’s top business minds. Join Fordify LIVE! Every Wednesday at 11AM Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. About Alesia Visconti Alesia Visconti is the CEO and President of FranServe, the world’s largest franchise consulting and broker network. With over 20 years of experience as a CEO and a deep passion for helping others achieve business ownership, Alesia is a leading voice in franchising. Under her leadership, FranServe has empowered hundreds of consultants and connected thousands of entrepreneurs to franchise opportunities. A frequent keynote speaker, author of The Pink Tsunami: Women’s Rise in Franchising, and active leader within the International Franchise Association, Alesia is reshaping the landscape of modern franchising with bold vision and impact. To learn more about Alesia Visconti and explore franchise opportunities, visit FranServe.com. About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator who has helped generate over a billion dollars in sales for organizations ranging from startups to Fortune 500s. With more than 20 years of ...
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    27 mins

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