New episode every Tuesday
Smart Franchising With Fransmart
Dive deep with Dan Rowe into the complex world of franchising and get expert insights, actionable strategies, and real-world stories.
Engaging interviews with industry leaders and successful franchise owners
This podcast isn’t just about the ‘what’ of franchising, it’s about the ‘how’ and the ‘why’. We’ll not only offer practical advice and actionable strategies, but also demystify the industry, explore its human side, and celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit that drives the franchise sector.
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Smart Franchising With Fransmart
June 4, 2024
Episode #10: Building Effective Franchise Systems with Aicha Bascaro
Join us as Aicha Bascaro, founder of the American Franchise Academy and a veteran with over 35 years in the franchising industry, dives deep into the essentials of franchising success. Discover the often-overlooked gap between franchisor teachings and franchisee needs.
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May 28, 2024
Episode #9: From Distribution to Franchise Dominance with Bill Gellert
Meet the Man Behind 50+ Five Guys. Bill Gellert started with a vision in food distribution and transformed it into a franchise kingdom. From picking perfect locations to creating a culture of dedication, Bill shares the secrets to his mouth-watering success. Tune in for an episode packed with flavors of determination, innovation, and community spirit.
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May 21, 2024
Episode #8: How Mike Axiotis Builds Winning Teams and Thriving Franchises
Meet Mike Axiotis, the mind behind thriving Red Robin and Wingstop franchises. Hear Mike’s personal story on how early challenges were transformed into a successful career. Gain insights into the importance of people, precision in systems, and the power of community in business success. Perfect for anyone aiming to leave a mark in the restaurant industry.
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May 14, 2024
Episode #7: Mastering Buyouts and Capital with Patrick Galleher
Join our podcast with Patrick Galleher, the expert behind Boxwood Partners. Patrick walks us through the nuances of preparing for a high-impact sale, how to effectively work with private equity, and the art of maximizing your franchise’s potential. Patrick doesn’t just share what works; he opens up about strategies that transform franchise operations and investment landscapes.
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May 7, 2024
Episode #6: From Single Store to National Staple with Freddy’s Scott Redler
Excited to share an inspiring conversation with Scott Redler, co-founder of Freddy’s, on the latest episode of my podcast. From a single location to 500 strong, Scott dives into the key decisions and values that fueled their impressive growth. Tune in as he shares vital tips for franchise success and maintaining high standards that keep customers coming back.
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April 30, 2024
Episode #5: The Franchise Playbook with Marc Magerman
Join us for a deep dive into the world of franchise consulting with Mark Magerman. He shares insights on discovering life-changing opportunities within franchising. Mark’s commitment to guidance and support for aspiring franchisees makes this episode a must-listen. Get ready to explore the ups and downs of franchising and set yourself on a path to success.
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Episode #4: How Tech Transformed Cali BBQ with Shawn Walchef
Join Shawn Walchef, the dynamic owner of Cali BBQ and Cali BBQ Media, as he reveals how digital tools catapulted his restaurant from local favorite to a tech-savvy franchise leader.
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April 16, 2024
Episode #3: From tech sales to $50m+ multi unit/multi concept franchisee
In this podcast episode, we meet Rick Fisher, a former software executive who made a big change to become a successful franchise owner. He shares the challenges and strategies of building a successful franchise network, highlighting the importance of conservative business planning and the critical role of cash flow. This episode offers straightforward advice and real-life experiences for anyone interested in franchising. Tune in and be inspired.
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April 9, 2024
Episode #2: Dishing Up Success: How Don Fox Built a Franchise Phenomenon
In our latest episode of Smart Franchising with Fransmart, we sit down with Don Fox, the former CEO of Firehouse Subs, to discuss his remarkable 50-year journey in the restaurant industry, culminating in the creation of a billion-dollar brand.
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April 2, 2024
Episode 1: Mastering the Franchise Game with Greg Flynn
Join us on this episode of Smart Franchising with Fransmart as host Dan Rowe uncovers the strategic genius behind the world’s largest franchise operator.
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About Dan Rowe
Dan specializes in finding the next big thing, and for over 20 years has identified and grown brands like Five Guys Burgers & Fries, QDOBA Mexican Grill, and The Halal Guys from small unit businesses to the powerhouse chains they are today. Under Dan’s direction, Fransmart’s current and past franchise development portfolio brands have opened more than 5,000 restaurants worldwide and facilitated franchise investments that have cumulatively generated over 1-billion in revenues to date. Dan is managing partner at The Kitchen Fund and FranInvest, which have invested in Sweetgreen, Cava, by Chloe, Inday, and Eegee’s, to name just a few, and is an active board member of Young Presidents Organization (YPO) and the National Restaurant Association where he serves/has served on finance, business strategy, executive committee and DEIA committees and task forces as well as co-chairing the Richard E. Marriott Golf Invitational fundraising event. Dan is also a CIA Fellow and Mentor.