What's Your F'ing Business?®

Written by: Mary Ann OConnell CFE - Franchise Consultant and CEO of FranWise® Franchise Consultants
  • Summary

  • What's Your F'ing Business?® is a podcast about franchising. These are candid interviews with the CEOs, founders and leaders of the best, sustainable brands and the service providers that support them. Whether you are contemplating being a franchisor or are running and growing your brand, there is a lot to learn from these seasoned franchise veterans. Do you want to know what the latest is in franchising, then this is the podcast for you. If you are interested in more information about ethical and sustainable franchising and the folks at FranWise® and O'Connell & Company, Inc., visit https://www.franwise.net.
    © 2023 @2021 Oconnell & Company, Inc. FranWise
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Episodes
  • Aligning Vision and Values in Franchising: Insights from Rob Flanagan CEO of Hounds Town USA
    Jan 20 2025

    Join us for an enlightening conversation with Rob Flanagan, CEO and cultural co-founder of Hounds Town USA, as he shares the secrets behind the brand's unique approach to doggy daycare and boarding. Discover how a former NYC Police Department canine unit member, Mike Gould, crafted a dog management philosophy that views the world through a dog's eyes, revolutionizing franchise operations and capturing the interest of franchisees. This episode promises insights into Houndstown's journey from humble beginnings and Rob's pivotal meeting with co-founder Jackie Bondanza.

    Explore the critical components of franchising as Rob sheds light on the importance of financial health and cultural alignment. Whether you're a seasoned franchisee or new to the game, understanding the financial intricacies before diving into the franchise world is crucial. Rob emphasizes the role of a skilled financial team in guiding growth while maintaining cultural integrity, especially when private equity comes into play. This discussion offers a roadmap for refining brand vocabulary and establishing a strong brand standards manual, ensuring new franchisees align with the company's values and vision.

    As we look toward the future, Rob shares Hounds Town's strategic growth plans, highlighting the significance of aligning with the right partners and integrating franchise recruitment across departments. The vision of every dog in America having access to Hounds Town services drives infrastructure development and marketing efforts. Gain valuable insights on navigating franchise networking, the importance of setting realistic expectations, and the collaborative spirit within the franchising community. Rob's contributions and the creative team behind "What's your F-ing Business" round out this engaging episode, leaving us inspired for the journey ahead.

    We don't just talk about operations, we help you refine them. Check out how FranWise can help your business!

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    51 mins
  • The Power of Thought Leadership, Roundtables, and the IFA Convention Starts Now!
    Jul 24 2024

    Attention franchise suppliers! Do you think your role at conventions is just about direct selling? Franchisors, do you thing the roundtables are only a place to one sold? Think again. This episode sheds light the suppliers' role in creating the vibrant hubs of shared learning and collaboration - the Thought Leadership Roundtables. With insightful contributions from Emily George of the International Franchise Association (IFA) and Marcia Mead, President and founder of M2 Franchise Consulting and Executive team of the Supplier Forum Advisory Board , we highlight the shift from "Business Solution Roundtables", to the more inclusive Thought Leadership Roundtables. These sessions are now driven by supplier facilitators and the input from franchisors, franchisees, and suppliers, fostering dynamic, participant-led discussions that focus on mutual learning and the exchange of innovative ideas in 7 key responsible franchising pillars.

    Marcia and Emily break down the process for achieving critical deadlines for topic ideas and facilitator options for the 2025 IFA convention and, ensuring you are well-prepared for upcoming events. We also discuss the importance of strategic participation for both franchisors and franchisees, ensuring maximum learning and networking opportunities.

    Finally, they share ideas on the essential etiquette for franchise suppliers, emphasizing the power of networking and knowledge-sharing over hard sales tactics. Discover why bringing paper business cards remains a timeless and crucial strategy, and learn how to effectively showcase your expertise. Their tips will guide you in making meaningful connections that go beyond the sales pitch, helping you leave a lasting impression without overwhelming potential clients.

    Tune in for an episode rich in practical advice and insights tailored for the franchising community!

    We don't just talk about operations, we help you refine them. Check out how FranWise can help your business!

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    43 mins
  • Revolutionizing Franchises Through Certification Programs
    Jun 19 2024

    Unlock the secrets of franchise success and profitability with Jayson Pearl, CEO and founder of ServiceScore, and Mark Jameson, Chief Development Officer of Propelled Brands. Discover how the Franchise Customer Experience Certification Program transforms franchisee satisfaction into consumer delight and, ultimately, business growth. Jason reveals the compelling hypothesis that happy franchisees drive happy customers, establishing a virtuous cycle of profitability. Mark shares firsthand how Propel Brands has been revolutionized by this program, ensuring their franchises not only meet but exceed industry standards.

    Fast Signs' remarkable journey to 760 locations across nine countries is just the beginning. Learn about their strategic acquisitions, including Nerds to Go, My Salon Suite, and Camp Bow Wow, pushing their portfolio to around 1,400 locations. The rigorous Franchise Certification Process ensures that franchisees are fully supported and heard, driving both top-line growth and profitability. The importance of external feedback is underscored, demonstrating how franchisees and consumers contribute to the continuous improvement and success of the brands.

    Customer experience is paramount, and no detail is too small. From mature, well-established brands to new and emerging ones, we discuss how leveraging insights and implementing best practices early on can forestall future challenges. The role of the Franchise Business Consultant is highlighted, ensuring that data collected is not just stored but actively used to enhance brand performance. Ethical considerations are also addressed, emphasizing the importance of readiness for certification. Stay tuned for exciting collaborations and our ongoing dedication to being a trusted resource in the franchising community.

    We don't just talk about operations, we help you refine them. Check out how FranWise can help your business!

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    46 mins

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