Episodes

  • S1Ep246 Leading with a Growth Mindset in Franchising with Larisa Walega

    S1Ep246 Leading with a Growth Mindset in Franchising with Larisa Walega
    Sep 4 2025
    Leading with a growth mindset isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a transformative approach that defines how businesses adapt, innovate, and thrive in competitive markets. For Larisa Walega, Chief Growth Officer at Ziebart, this mindset has been the foundation of a remarkable career and a driving force behind the evolution of a 65-year-old global brand. Ziebart is a name many associate with automotive protection, but under Larisa’s leadership, the brand has become much more. Today, it operates in 37 countries with over 400 locations, serving millions of customers worldwide. That level of scale doesn’t happen by chance. It’s the result of forward-thinking strategies, deliberate culture-building, and a willingness to embrace change when others resist it. Larisa’s journey with Ziebart began in field marketing—a role that gave her an up-close perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing franchise owners. That hands-on experience shaped her leadership philosophy. She believes growth starts with listening, understanding stakeholder goals, and aligning strategies to support them. This isn’t theory; it’s a practical application of leading with a growth mindset. For Larisa, adaptability isn’t optional—it’s essential. Her rise to the C-suite coincided with one of the most pivotal chapters in Ziebart’s history: rebranding. Legacy brands often face an identity challenge. They carry decades of success, but shifting consumer expectations and market disruptions demand reinvention. Rather than clinging to the past, Ziebart doubled down on transformation, modernizing its image and strengthening its positioning as the leader in automotive appearance and protection. That decision required bold leadership, and Larisa played a central role in making it happen. What does leading with a growth mindset look like in practice? It’s a mix of strategy, empathy, and execution. Larisa emphasizes the importance of culture—both at corporate headquarters and within franchise locations. For her, team members are not just employees; they are brand ambassadors. Building a strong internal culture translates directly into customer experience. When employees feel valued and connected to a company’s mission, they deliver better service, foster loyalty, and strengthen the brand. Technology also plays a key role. Under Larisa’s leadership, Ziebart embraced digital tools to enhance customer engagement and streamline operations. This included integrating systems that make it easier for franchisees to connect with customers through text, email, and other digital channels. These shifts might seem minor, but they reflect a mindset focused on relevance and responsiveness—two traits that define market leaders. Ford Saeks, a business growth strategist and longtime advocate for operational excellence, often underscores this principle: businesses that fail to adapt risk becoming obsolete. Leading with a growth mindset means anticipating change and preparing for it long before the market demands it. Larisa embodies that principle, guiding Ziebart through initiatives that prioritize customer needs while safeguarding franchisee success. Franchising, by nature, requires balance. Brands must maintain consistency while allowing flexibility for local markets. For Larisa, the answer lies in systems and relationships. A structured framework ensures brand integrity, while strong communication fosters collaboration and trust. This dual approach has helped Ziebart maintain decades-long relationships with many of its franchise owners—a rarity in today’s fast-changing business environment. Recognition of Larisa’s influence extends beyond Ziebart. She chairs the International Franchise Association’s Women’s Franchise Committee and serves on its Board of Directors. Her leadership has earned her accolades from Entrepreneur, Brand Innovators, and 1851 Franchise, placing her among the top thought leaders shaping the future of franchising. As industries navigate economic uncertainty, labor challenges, and technological disruption, one truth stands out: companies that embrace growth-minded leadership will outpace those that don’t. Leaders like Larisa Walega demonstrate that success isn’t about maintaining the status quo—it’s about challenging it. By fostering innovation, empowering teams, and staying customer-focused, brands can achieve sustainable growth in any market. Leading with a growth mindset isn’t just a leadership style. It’s a competitive advantage. And for organizations willing to embrace it, the opportunities are limitless. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Fordify LIVE! streams every Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. Central across all social media platforms, featuring conversations with top business leaders. New episodes of The Business Growth Show podcast drop every Thursday. About Larisa Walega Larisa Walega is the Chief Growth Officer at Ziebart, a global automotive appearance and protection brand with ...
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    39 mins
  • S1Ep245 Authentic Personal Branding with Prince EA

    S1Ep245 Authentic Personal Branding with Prince EA
    Aug 28 2025
    Authentic personal branding has never been more important—or more misunderstood. In an era where AI-generated content floods the internet and social media algorithms reward superficial engagement, how can entrepreneurs, founders, and creators cut through the noise and actually connect? That’s the question at the heart of this powerful episode of Fordify LIVE! The Business Growth Show, featuring internationally acclaimed filmmaker, spoken word artist, and entrepreneur Prince EA. If you've ever wondered how to build a brand that resonates on a human level, this episode is for you. Prince EA joins Ford Saeks to unpack the mindset and methods behind his global influence, including what it takes to turn passion into purpose, and how authenticity is the greatest differentiator in the marketplace today. With over 2 billion views across his platforms, Prince EA doesn’t just talk about authentic personal branding—he lives it. Throughout the episode, Ford and Prince dive into the essential shift from making content to making connection. They explore how intentional storytelling rooted in emotion, clarity, and vulnerability can elevate not only your brand, but your impact. Whether you’re a founder, executive, or creator, the conversation reinforces that your most powerful asset isn’t a marketing budget or production quality—it’s your voice, your story, and your willingness to show up with purpose. Prince EA shares insights into his journey from aspiring musician to viral content creator, and how that pivot came from focusing less on self-promotion and more on service. That mindset is the foundation of authentic personal branding. It’s not about being everywhere—it’s about being real wherever you are. And as Prince points out, real connection can’t be outsourced, delegated, or replicated by automation. Ford adds his own experience working with businesses around the world, emphasizing how too many leaders skip the step of building a genuine brand voice. Together, they highlight that in a world where AI can do almost everything, the human element—empathy, creativity, and clarity—becomes your competitive advantage. The episode doesn’t just talk high-level branding theory. It gets into the practical realities of content strategy, digital influence, and the role of platforms like YouTube in building long-term brand equity. From viral video structure to leveraging emotion without manipulation, the conversation is rich with real-world wisdom that can shift how you approach your business and brand immediately. What makes this episode truly powerful is the reminder that authenticity isn’t a tactic—it’s a commitment. It’s about aligning your message, your mission, and your medium. Authentic personal branding isn’t just about standing out. It’s about standing for something—and allowing that clarity to guide your decisions, content, and communication. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to amplify your message in a crowded market, this episode offers a refreshing take on what it means to build influence that lasts. Prince EA’s grounded insights paired with Ford’s business growth strategies deliver a conversation that’s both inspiring and actionable. Don’t miss this impactful episode with Prince EA. It will challenge the way you think about branding, influence, and the value of showing up as your full self in business and beyond. Watch the full episode on YouTube. 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 Prince EA Prince EA is a powerhouse of creativity, authenticity, and purpose-driven storytelling. With over 2 billion views and a global following, he’s redefined what it means to create content that truly connects. Whether he’s behind the camera or on the mic, Prince EA is all about inspiring positive change and sparking meaningful conversations. If you’ve ever seen one of his videos, you know the impact of his message—and if you haven’t, now’s the time. Dive into his world of thought-provoking content and experience what makes Prince EA one of the most influential voices online today: Visit PrinceEA.com or find him on YouTube. About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator with a passion for helping entrepreneurs, executives, and organizations achieve measurable success. With more than 20 years of experience and over a billion dollars in sales generated for clients ranging from startups to Fortune 500s, Ford brings the real-world insight and strategic thinking needed to drive results. As President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., Ford specializes in marketing, innovation, and customer engagement strategies that move the needle. He’s founded over ten companies, authored five books, and earned three U.S. patents—proving he doesn’t just talk business, he builds it. Ford is also a recognized...
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    45 mins
  • S1Ep244 Supporting Healthy Employees and Team Members with Cody Beard

    S1Ep244 Supporting Healthy Employees and Team Members with Cody Beard
    Aug 21 2025
    Supporting healthy employees isn’t just about offering perks—it’s about creating a workplace culture where well-being translates into productivity and long-term success. Few understand this better than Cody Beard, owner of Prime IV Hydration & Wellness in Wichita. With years of leadership experience in manufacturing and a deep commitment to health, Beard brings a unique perspective on why wellness strategies should be at the core of every business. Employee well-being has evolved far beyond casual mentions in mission statements. Today, businesses face growing challenges with burnout, stress, and turnover. For Ford Saeks, business growth strategist and host of The Business Growth Show, this is more than an HR issue—it’s a business performance strategy. Saeks often reminds leaders that their people are their most valuable asset, and organizations that fail to prioritize health are missing a critical growth lever. Beard’s own journey underscores this truth. Before launching Prime IV, he spent years managing large teams in demanding manufacturing environments, where efficiency and engagement were constant priorities. “I was always looking for ways to keep my team safe, maintain wellness, and drive engagement,” Beard explains. Traditional measures like on-site chiropractors and massage therapists helped, but he recognized the need for something more impactful—something that went beyond words and delivered real results. That search led Beard and his wife to Prime IV Hydration & Wellness. What began as a personal commitment to better health evolved into a mission-driven business designed to help others achieve the same. Today, Beard operates two Prime IV locations in Wichita, offering hydration and vitamin therapies that support energy, focus, and recovery. For business leaders, these services represent more than a luxury—they’re a practical solution for supporting healthy employees in a fast-paced world. The connection between wellness and workplace performance isn’t theoretical. Organizations that invest in employee health consistently report higher retention rates, stronger engagement, and increased productivity. Beard sees this firsthand with companies that implement wellness strategies through Prime IV. “There’s a difference between saying you value your employees and actually doing something about it,” he says. Providing tangible resources shows employees that their well-being truly matters, creating trust and loyalty that no policy document can match. Saeks points out another key advantage: differentiation. In an era of talent shortages, offering meaningful wellness initiatives can set businesses apart from competitors. “Healthy employees don’t just work harder—they work smarter,” Saeks emphasizes. Companies that prioritize health send a clear message about their culture, which resonates with top talent and strengthens employer branding. One of Beard’s most practical suggestions for companies hesitant to start is simple: take one step. That might mean inviting a wellness provider for a lunch-and-learn, or giving team members a chance to experience a service firsthand. “Send in a champion from your team,” Beard advises. “Once they experience the benefits, it becomes easy to advocate for more.” This grassroots approach often sparks the momentum needed to make wellness part of the organizational fabric. Beyond physical health, Beard sees wellness as a catalyst for engagement and morale. The experience at Prime IV is designed with this in mind. From calming environments to personalized care, every detail is aimed at helping clients feel valued and cared for—an experience that businesses can mirror within their own culture. “Our goal is to make wellness approachable and enjoyable,” Beard explains. “When people feel better, they show up better—in every aspect of life.” Supporting healthy employees isn’t a passing trend. It’s a long-term strategy for businesses that want to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. For leaders like Saeks and Beard, the message is clear: prioritize your people’s health, and performance will follow. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Fordify LIVE! streams every Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. Central on all social media platforms, bringing actionable insights and real conversations with industry leaders. New podcast episodes of The Business Growth Show drop every Thursday. About Cody Beard Cody Beard is the owner of Prime IV Hydration & Wellness in Wichita, Kansas, where he helps individuals and organizations take a proactive approach to health. With a background in manufacturing leadership, Cody understands the connection between workplace wellness, employee engagement, and performance. His mission is to make wellness accessible and actionable, offering hydration and vitamin therapies designed to boost energy, improve recovery, and enhance overall well-being. Learn more about Prime IV Hydration & Wellness. About ...
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    29 mins
  • S1Ep243 AI Hearing Technology, Leadership & Legacy with Brandon Sawalich

    S1Ep243 AI Hearing Technology, Leadership & Legacy with Brandon Sawalich
    Aug 14 2025
    AI hearing technology is redefining what it means to stay connected, healthy, and high-performing in today’s fast-moving world. Leading that transformation is Brandon Sawalich, President & CEO of Starkey—the only American-owned major hearing aid manufacturer and a global pioneer in intelligent hearing solutions. With over 30 years at Starkey, Sawalich has led the company from legacy roots to a billion-dollar enterprise operating in over 100 markets. His focus? Making hearing health a frontline conversation in wearable tech and wellness. “We wanted to go from incremental improvements to the moonshot,” Sawalich said. “How do we make hearing aids cool? How do we make them do more? That’s where AI came in.” Under his leadership, Starkey became the first to integrate AI hearing technology and embedded sensors into hearing aids. These aren’t traditional devices—they’re multifunctional health tools that can track steps, detect falls, translate languages, and provide real-time environmental adjustments. The AI is always on, continuously learning and optimizing based on surroundings. “It’s your personal assistant, it’s Jarvis in your ear,” Sawalich added, referencing Iron Man’s intuitive AI companion. He’s also changing the cultural narrative around hearing loss. “You think of a hearing aid and you think you’re old. That’s not how I think. Hearing is your superpower.” Sawalich’s approach to innovation isn’t just about technology—it’s grounded in people-first leadership. His belief in servant leadership shapes the culture at Starkey, a company with more than 5,000 employees worldwide. “I don’t see myself at the top of the pyramid. I work for the people of Starkey,” he said. “It’s my job to give them the resources and clear vision to be the best.” What sets Starkey apart in the crowded health tech space is its blend of purpose and agility. As a privately held company, Starkey doesn’t answer to shareholders—it answers to patients and providers. That freedom has allowed the company to move quickly, take calculated risks, and focus on long-term impact over short-term gains. AI hearing technology is often overlooked compared to wearables like smartwatches or rings, but the ear is emerging as one of the most powerful access points for real-time health data. “The ear is the pathway to the brain,” Sawalich noted. “It’s where meaningful insights can happen—if you know how to listen.” From shaping policy to expanding into new distribution channels, Starkey continues to lead with vision. But at its core, the mission remains deeply human: to connect people through better hearing and help them live fuller, healthier lives. As Sawalich puts it, “Whatever you do, be passionate about it—and help others succeed along the way.” Watch the full episode on YouTube. Don’t miss future conversations that help you drive results, expand your influence, and sharpen your business edge. Join Fordify LIVE! every Wednesday at 11 a.m. Central on your favorite social platforms, and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. About Brandon Sawalich Brandon Sawalich is the President and CEO of Starkey, the largest American-owned hearing aid manufacturer and a global leader in AI hearing technology. With more than three decades at the company, Brandon has helped drive Starkey’s transformation into a billion-dollar innovator in health-focused wearables. His leadership blends cutting-edge vision with purpose-driven culture, positioning the ear as the next frontier in connected health. Committed to both innovation and impact, Brandon continues to lead with a focus on excellence, agility, and service. To learn more about Starkey’s breakthrough technology and mission to improve hearing health worldwide, visit Starkey.com. About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator with over 20 years of experience helping organizations ignite innovation, attract loyal customers, and drive sustained success. As President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., Ford has generated over a billion dollars in sales for companies ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500s. An award-winning entrepreneur and thought leader, Ford has founded more than ten companies, authored five books, earned three U.S. patents, and received numerous industry accolades. His expertise also extends into the field of AI prompt engineering, where he is recognized for training AI to deliver compelling, results-driven content. Most recently, he was featured at the “Unleash AI for Business Summit,” sharing insights on how ChatGPT is transforming marketing, sales, and customer experience. To learn more about Ford, visit ProfitRichResults.com, and catch his business TV show at Fordify.tv.
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    33 mins
  • S1Ep242 Spa Franchise Growth & Purpose-Driven Leadership with Allison Langenderfer

    S1Ep242 Spa Franchise Growth & Purpose-Driven Leadership with Allison Langenderfer
    Aug 7 2025
    Spa franchise growth is evolving beyond the basics of service menus and storefront expansion. Today, the most successful wellness brands scale by blending luxury with purpose—offering not just treatments, but experiences that restore, connect, and inspire. One brand leading this shift is Spavia Day Spa, founded by Allison Langenderfer. What began as a single-location concept has grown into a nationwide franchise known for elevated guest experiences, thoughtfully curated retail, and a culture deeply rooted in care. In the world of franchising, many chase unit growth without laying the cultural or operational foundation to support it. Spavia flipped that model. From the beginning, Allison built the brand around intention—delivering consistent, high-end spa services while fostering connection between guests, team members, and franchise owners. That clarity of purpose has become a major driver of Spavia’s franchise growth, helping the brand stand out in a saturated industry. Allison’s path to launching a wellness franchise wasn’t traditional. Her background includes a successful run as a Macy’s buyer, followed by a decade in pharmaceutical sales. That experience gave her a strong foundation in operations, customer engagement, and market strategy—all skills she now channels into leading Spavia. But what really sets her leadership apart is a strong emotional intelligence and unwavering focus on community. Whether it’s through the brand’s nonprofit initiative, Spavia Cares, or their dedication to franchisee support, the company’s mission goes beyond profit—it’s about impact. Spa franchise growth requires more than just a great treatment menu. Spavia places significant emphasis on guest experience—from the curated arrival ritual to the tranquil spa environment and personalized service. Each location is designed to offer a high-end, boutique feel while staying approachable and community-focused. This attention to detail has fueled word-of-mouth buzz and repeat visits, while also giving franchise owners a proven model to plug into. As the wellness space becomes more crowded, differentiation matters more than ever. Spavia’s approach includes an expertly developed retail program, a market-driven service lineup, and strong national branding that still allows room for local connection. Franchisees aren’t just operators—they’re partners, empowered with tools and support that help them maintain brand standards while customizing for their markets. That balance is a key ingredient in scalable success and a foundational principle in Spavia’s growth strategy. The heart of Spavia’s spa franchise growth lies in its people. From estheticians to guest advisors to franchise owners, culture and connection drive performance. The company places a strong emphasis on training, empowerment, and creating a workplace where employees can thrive. That translates directly into the guest experience—warm, consistent, and tailored. Franchisees benefit from a model that’s been tested, refined, and supported with systems. Spavia’s leadership has intentionally built an infrastructure to scale, not just in size but in depth. As more entrepreneurs look to enter the wellness space, Spavia offers an opportunity to join a brand that’s not just growing, but growing the right way. For those exploring franchise opportunities or seeking to lead with purpose in the health and wellness industry, Spavia stands as a prime example of how mission-driven values and a refined guest experience can fuel long-term success. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Don’t miss future conversations that help you drive results, expand your influence, and sharpen your business edge. 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 Allison Langenderfer Allison Langenderfer is the Founder and President of Spavia Day Spa, a leading wellness franchise committed to delivering high-end, personalized spa experiences in a warm and welcoming environment. With a background in retail and pharmaceutical sales, Allison brings a unique blend of creative vision, operational insight, and purpose-driven leadership to the spa industry. Under her guidance, Spavia has expanded into a nationally recognized brand, known for its curated services, community impact through Spavia Cares, and strong franchisee support. To explore more about Spavia or inquire about franchise opportunities, visit SpaviaDaySpa.com. About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator with a proven track record of helping businesses—from startups to Fortune 500s—generate over a billion dollars in sales. As President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., Ford specializes in customer acquisition, brand visibility, and strategic innovation. With over 20 years of experience, he’s founded more than ten companies, authored ...
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    43 mins
  • S1Ep241 Customer Experience Franchise Growth with Scott Ball

    S1Ep241 Customer Experience Franchise Growth with Scott Ball
    Jul 31 2025
    Customer experience franchise growth has become the difference-maker for brands that aim to scale in today’s competitive market. It’s no longer enough to have a recognizable logo or a trendy product. Brands that grow—and stay relevant—are the ones that build a following through memorable, customizable customer experiences. At the center of this movement is FiiZ Drinks, a soda-centric franchise that’s making waves by bringing back nostalgia and wrapping it in a modern, crave-worthy experience. With more than 25 years in franchising and hospitality, Scott Ball brings deep industry insight to his role as President of FiiZ Drinks. His background includes leadership positions with Dunkin’, Arby’s, and TJ Cinnamons, giving him a seasoned perspective on what it takes to scale a brand and support franchisees effectively. But his work with FiiZ isn’t about following an old playbook—it’s about writing a new one centered around customer experience franchise growth. FiiZ Drinks is not just another beverage brand. The experience is what makes it different. From fully customizable soda combinations to nostalgic aesthetics and a fast-casual service model that caters to drive-thru convenience, the brand has tapped into a unique emotional space. The concept blends the energy of a retro soda shop with the variety and speed demanded by modern consumers. It's not just about buying a drink—it's about owning the experience. That experience starts with personalization. With thousands of drink combinations available—including soda, frozen beverages, flavored waters, and sugar-free options—customers create something that feels uniquely theirs. This level of customization fuels engagement, drives frequency, and creates endless shareable moments on social media. For younger demographics in particular, FiiZ has become a place to connect, express, and indulge. And with vibrant store designs and upbeat service, it’s no surprise the brand is building community hubs, not just retail locations. At the business level, customer experience franchise growth is what’s powering FiiZ’s national expansion. Since early 2024, the brand has signed over 130 new franchise units, extending its footprint from Utah and the Mountain West into the Midwest, Southeast, and even Canada. But FiiZ isn't just handing out franchise agreements—they’re selecting partners with passion, operational experience, and the resources to scale in new markets. Each franchisee is trained not just on operations, but on the culture and community-building that drive customer loyalty. Scott Ball is clear: growth without operational support doesn’t last. That’s why FiiZ invests in product innovation, LTOs (limited-time offers), regional marketing support, and national brand-building partnerships with beverage giants like Pepsi, Coca-Cola, and Dr Pepper. This collaboration enables FiiZ to move fast, stay relevant, and deliver experiences customers can’t find anywhere else. And in markets unfamiliar with “dirty soda” culture, they lead with education, sampling, and local connection—fundamentals of franchise growth rooted in experience. A big part of the brand’s strategy is flexibility in its real estate model. While 85% of FiiZ sales currently come through drive-thru locations, the company is expanding into malls, campuses, and non-traditional spaces. The goal is to meet customers where they are, not force them into a singular format. That adaptability strengthens the brand’s scalability—an essential part of any franchise growth strategy. Customer experience franchise growth isn’t just a buzz phrase—it’s a measurable, operational commitment. FiiZ Drinks is showing how a tight focus on delighting guests, building local community ties, and supporting franchisees with real systems leads to momentum that sustains. As competition increases and consumer expectations continue to evolve, brands that lead with experience will be the ones that thrive. For franchise leaders, entrepreneurs, or investors looking at the next big opportunity in food and beverage, FiiZ represents a growing category with staying power. It’s not just about the drinks. It’s about culture, customization, and community—served daily. Watch the full interview on YouTube. Don’t miss future conversations that help you drive results, expand your influence, and sharpen your business edge. 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 Scott BallScott Ball is the President of FiiZ Drinks, a rapidly expanding beverage franchise known for its customizable drink experience and nostalgic-meets-modern brand approach. With over 25 years of leadership experience in the hospitality and franchising industry, Scott has held key roles at major brands including Dunkin’, Arby’s, and TJ Cinnamons. He brings a deep ...
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    27 mins
  • S1Ep240 Franchise Business Growth and Leadership That Scales with Ryan Parsons

    S1Ep240 Franchise Business Growth and Leadership That Scales with Ryan Parsons
    Jul 24 2025
    Franchise business growth isn’t just about systems and strategy—it’s about building a model that scales while staying rooted in purpose. The challenge? Most entrepreneurs either chase fast expansion without infrastructure or lose momentum by over-engineering before gaining traction. So how do you strike the balance between rapid scale and sustainable leadership? Franchise leaders often face the friction of growing a brand while supporting franchisees who expect results and structure. The balancing act between operational excellence, scalable systems, and human-centered leadership is what separates long-lasting brands from short-lived ventures. For those looking to expand their business footprint while maintaining alignment and performance, the path isn’t always obvious. Franchise business growth takes more than just capital and vision—it requires real experience from those who’ve been in the trenches. Ryan Parsons brings that credibility. After co-founding The Brothers that just do Gutters, he nearly lost everything trying to build a sustainable model. But instead of backing down, he doubled down on systems, refined operations, and scaled the business into a national franchise that ultimately attracted private equity acquisition. Today, as the CEO of Evive Brands, Ryan leads a growing portfolio of service-oriented franchises spanning over 600 locations. What sets Ryan apart is his operational mindset and people-first leadership. Franchise growth is often romanticized through unit counts and rapid expansion headlines, but the real engine is franchisee success. That’s where Ryan puts his focus—supporting local operators with structure, guidance, and an unwavering commitment to alignment between the brand and its owners. He doesn’t just talk about scale—he’s engineered it with proven frameworks that hold up under the pressures of private equity, market shifts, and evolving customer expectations. When it comes to building a franchise platform, too many companies prioritize sales over substance. Ryan shares a philosophy centered on supporting the existing network before chasing new units. That level of discipline builds real value, and it’s a message that’s resonating across industries. Whether it’s senior care, home services, or estate sales, the principles of franchise business growth remain the same—empower local ownership, strengthen backend operations, and never lose sight of the customer experience. The conversation also challenges a common myth in franchising: that growth is all about marketing. While national exposure matters, it’s the ground game—the local community engagement, relationship-building, and reputation management—that drives meaningful results. Franchisees aren’t just operators; they’re entrepreneurs, and Ryan makes it clear that personal accountability and local visibility are key ingredients to their success. A standout insight comes from the idea that great franchise systems require both a visionary and an integrator. Ryan, by his own admission, thrives in the integrator role—bringing clarity to chaos and building the internal infrastructure that transforms ideas into executable strategy. That balance between inspiration and execution becomes critical when trying to scale beyond the first few units. Technology, especially AI, is also shaping the next phase of franchise business growth. But Ryan cautions against over-automation. The goal isn’t to replace the human element—it’s to enhance it. From customer service to lead generation, the future belongs to brands that can streamline with technology while keeping their client experience personal, empathetic, and friction-free. The core message? Franchise business growth isn’t about hype or shortcuts. It’s about intention, execution, and relentless support. Ryan’s trajectory—from surviving near-failure to leading one of the fastest-growing franchise platforms in the country—is proof that scaling with integrity is not only possible but essential. If you’re building a franchise brand, supporting franchisees, or investing in scalable business models, this is a conversation worth your attention. It’s not just about adding locations—it’s about multiplying impact. Don’t miss future conversations that help you drive results, expand your influence, and sharpen your business edge. 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 Ryan Parsons Ryan Parsons is the CEO of Evive Brands, a multi-brand franchise platform that includes Executive Home Care, Assisted Living Locators, Grasons, and The Brothers that just do Gutters. After co-founding and scaling The Brothers into a national franchise—ultimately acquired by private equity in 2023—Ryan now leads over 600 locations across the U.S. He’s passionate about franchise business growth, ...
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    33 mins
  • 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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    41 mins