1851

Franchising has become a key avenue for women of all backgrounds to pursue their business goals with the support of proven systems and strong networks. This combination allows them to create meaningful impacts in their communities while achieving personal and professional growth.As we celebrate&nbsp;<a href="https://www.joinwedo.org/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=womens-entrepreneurship-day-3-inspiring-stories-of-women-in-franchising-2727796" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Women’s Entrepreneurship Day</a>, 1851 Franchise spoke to three awesome women in franchising to learn more about their stories.&nbsp;<h3>LynnAnn Zazzali: The Learning Experience</h3><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnann-zazzali-29319a161/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=womens-entrepreneurship-day-3-inspiring-stories-of-women-in-franchising-2727796" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">LynnAnn Zazzali</a> transitioned from a successful career in public education to becoming a franchisee with&nbsp;<a href="https://tle-franchising.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=womens-entrepreneurship-day-3-inspiring-stories-of-women-in-franchising-2727796" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">The Learning Experience (TLE)</a>. After years as a dedicated public school teacher, Zazzali found herself at a crossroads when her growing family needed quality child care options. Frustrated by her experiences touring local centers, she sought a different path and, with encouragement from her family, explored franchising opportunities. She chose The Learning Experience after meeting with the corporate team in New Jersey, where she connected with their mission and found alignment with her passion for literacy and education. Since then, Zazzali has successfully built nine TLE locations.&nbsp;1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?LynnAnn Zazzali:&nbsp;Before I got into franchising with The Learning Experience, I was a public school teacher. I started my teaching career at Clifton High School, where I taught high school English. I earned my first master's in reading and became a reading specialist in Englewood, [New Jersey], working at a middle school. While pursuing my second master's in Educational Leadership, I worked in an elementary school as a reading specialist.During my time in Englewood, I got pregnant with my first son. Then, while working at the elementary school in Pequannock, New Jersey, I got pregnant with my daughter. I noticed that my son needed to be around other children for socialization. I had someone who came to help while I was at work as a teacher, but as we started looking at child care centers, I found it very difficult. Every time I went on a tour, I would end up in tears, literally crying, thinking, “How am I going to leave my children with strangers I don't know?”I talked to my parents and my husband, and my dad suggested, “Why don’t you open up your own child care center? You’re getting your master's in Educational Leadership to be a principal, but instead of going that route, why not do this?” At first, I thought he was insane — I loved teaching so much. I won Teacher of the Year in Pequannock and it meant so much to me. I looked forward to going to work every day. But the idea stuck in my mind, and I started thinking about it more seriously.Initially, I thought I could open my own center without franchising, but I realized that the real estate piece would probably be the hardest part because of all the requirements. So, I started looking into different franchises and came across The Learning Experience. Their headquarters were in New Jersey, so it was easy for me to visit and meet with them in person. There was also a location in my town and, at the time, The Learning Experience was relatively new — this was back in 2006. I loved the people there and the fact that they had a reading component, which was especially important to me given my background.After meeting with them, I thought, “Maybe I can do this.” I signed the papers in 2006, but it wasn’t until 2008 that a location became available in Waldwick, New Jersey. I was initially apprehensive because this facility was larger than usual — 15,000 square feet instead of the typical 10,000. And the other challenge was that it was ready to open in just 30 days, while I still had a 60-day contract in my teaching job. So for a month, I was working both jobs with a lot of sleepless nights, which was challenging because I had never owned a business before.It was a big change going from being a public school teacher to being a business owner. I was used to being with children and interacting with parents, but suddenly, I had my own business to run. I quickly realized that I would also have to handle sales and marketing. Luckily, The Learning Experience has an amazing system and I learned that if I followed their system, I could make it work. And that’s what franchising is all about — having a tried-and-true system to follow.1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?Zazzali:&nbsp;In the beginning, I had a different perception of franchising. I used to think it might be very cold and cookie-cutter, like a one-size-fits-all approach. But that perception has changed drastically over time. I only have experience with The Learning Experience, so I’m a bit biased, but they’re very progressive and things are constantly evolving. It’s not cookie-cutter or cold at all; it’s warm and friendly.When I started, the company was much smaller, but now there are hundreds of centers across the country and even in the UK. Despite that growth, it still feels like a small company because the CEO is genuinely invested in his franchisees and treats it like a partnership — almost like a family. He’s accessible, whether it’s through a phone call, an email, a Zoom or a Teams meeting.While there are systems in place, I still have the freedom to put as much love and care into my business as I want. I can share my vision with my teams and the individual schools I own and operate, which is really important to me.1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Zazzali:&nbsp;I chose The Learning Experience specifically because I had the opportunity to meet the owners and the entire corporate team at their headquarters. Meeting them in person was the deciding factor for me because I could see firsthand that they genuinely believed in me and were committed to supporting me as I grew and worked towards success. Their dedication and the personal connection made all the difference in my decision.1851: What is the one thing about your story you want us to know?Zazzali:&nbsp;Being a part of The Learning Experience isn’t just about the business aspect for me; it's also about personal growth. Owning your own business really pushes you to grow, and I quickly learned how important relationships and connecting with people are. I genuinely believe that applies to any business. There's a saying that people will forget what you did or said, but they'll never forget how you made them feel, and that’s been a key theme throughout my journey with each location I own.<h3>Susan Delaney: Seniors Helping Seniors®</h3>After a 25-year career in corporate IT,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/susandelaney10?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=womens-entrepreneurship-day-3-inspiring-stories-of-women-in-franchising-2727796" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Susan Delaney</a> sought more purpose in her life and decided to start her own business. While exploring various franchise opportunities, she felt drawn to the mission of&nbsp;<a href="https://seniorshelpingseniorsfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=womens-entrepreneurship-day-3-inspiring-stories-of-women-in-franchising-2727796" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Seniors Helping Seniors®</a>, an in-home senior care franchise. Inspired by her grandmother’s experience with Alzheimer's and the lack of in-home care options at the time, Delaney aims to provide meaningful support to other families.&nbsp;1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?Susan Delaney:&nbsp;After spending 25 years in the corporate IT world, I realized that the part I loved most was bringing people together, uniting them behind common goals and creating a supportive environment where they could succeed. I wanted to do that but align it with a desire to make a direct impact on people’s lives so I decided to start my own business to bring these two passions together.&nbsp;1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?Delaney:&nbsp;I knew franchising was the way to go because I was entering a completely new field and needed the support and community that franchising offers. I explored a variety of franchises, from yoga studios to drain cleaning businesses, but senior care kept coming back to me. After speaking to various brands in the home care space,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/seniorshelpingseniors/info">Seniors Helping Seniors®</a> really stood out.1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Delaney: Everything about the brand stood out — their mission, what they do and the way everyone is committed to the mission. The idea of helping seniors stay independent in their homes by leveraging an untapped senior workforce was a win-win story for me. It also resonated deeply because of my grandmother. She was very active in the community and my hero growing up, but when she developed Alzheimer's, the only option at the time was to place her in a nursing home. I believe in-home care would have allowed her to stay with us longer, and that’s something I want to provide for other families.1851: What is the one thing about your story you want us to know?Delaney:&nbsp;One of the things that drew me to this business is that I love hearing people’s stories, and I get to do that every day now. Seniors, whether they are caregivers or clients, have the best stories, and they love to share them.<h3>Alda Bryant: Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</h3>After her overseas deployment in 2022, Navy veteran&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/aldabryant?utm_source=1851franchise.com&amp%3Butm_medium=article&amp%3Butm_campaign=us-navy-reservist-brings-pigtails-crewcuts-to-clarksville-filling-a-community-need-2727587&utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=womens-entrepreneurship-day-3-inspiring-stories-of-women-in-franchising-2727796" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Alda Bryant</a> decided to pursue a better work-life balance to spend more time with her two young children. This led her to franchise ownership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pigtailsandcrewcutsfranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=womens-entrepreneurship-day-3-inspiring-stories-of-women-in-franchising-2727796" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a> in Clarksville, Tennessee. Bryant plans to serve the local military community, aiming to create a welcoming space for families. Her military background, dedication to family, and commitment to community service are key to her efforts1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?Alda Bryant:&nbsp;I’m a supply officer in the Navy, and I also work for the Department of Energy. In 2022, I was reactivated and sent to Djibouti for almost a year and a half. When I got back, I wanted a better work-life balance to spend more time with my kids, who are six and eight. That’s really what started it — finding a new direction that would let me have those moments with my family.1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?Bryant:&nbsp;I’ve always wanted to own my own business. I like being able to control my own destiny and create something. I considered going back into the commercial or private sector, but I wanted a job with flexibility. I used to run a veterans program and could make my own schedule, so I wanted something that would allow me to be there for my kids’ events.1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Bryant:&nbsp;I stumbled upon&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/pigtails-and-crewcuts/info">Pigtails &amp; Crewcuts</a>, and it struck a chord with me. I knew from personal experience how hard it is for moms to find a place to get their kids haircuts. The concept filled a void in our community, and it just felt right. That’s big for me — things need to feel right.1851: What is the one thing about your story you want us to know?Bryant:&nbsp;This is something I’m building with my children. It’s not just for me, but for my family. They’ve been part of the whole process, visiting the salon under construction and getting excited. My daughter wants to sweep floors and learn to cut hair, and my son wants to help promote the business. It’s a family business and, one day, I’d love for them to take over.Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.1851growthclub.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=womens-entrepreneurship-day-3-inspiring-stories-of-women-in-franchising-2727796" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.1851growthclub.com</a> and start your journey.

Women’s Entrepreneurship Day: 3 Inspiring Stories of Women in Franchising

Women’s Entrepreneurship Day: Stories of Women in Franchising

1851 Franchise

In honor of this special celebration of female entrepreneurs, 1851 Franchise spoke to franchisees from The Learning Experience, Seniors Helping Seniors and Pigtails & Crewcuts. 

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Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

How Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Gives Franchisees Fortune 500 Buying Power

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KidStrong Franchising, LLC

Top 5 Reasons to Buy a KidStrong Franchise in 2026

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Minuteman Press International

Minuteman Press, Covina, CA. Pictured L-R: Daniel Hsu, Adriana Hsu, and Christine McBurney.

Minuteman Press Franchise Owner Daniel Hsu Achieves One Year in Covina

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DoodyCalls

Leaving Corporate Life and Seeking Structure, Suzanne Fowler Turned to Franchising With DoodyCalls

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Making the Pivot From Medicine to Mobile, Kimberley Dilley Thrives as DoodyCalls Franchise Owner

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IFA Releases 2026 Franchising Economic Outlook Report, Predicting Over 12,000 New Franchised Businesses This Year

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Restaurants Eye $1.55 Trillion in 2026 Sales as Value and Cost Pressures Define the Year

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Kevin Hart Is the Latest Celebrity to Enter the Franchising Game

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Driven Brands IMO Sale - Franchise Equity Partners - 1851 Franchise Agg

Driven Brands Sells IMO, Doubles Down on Take 5 and Franchise Portfolio

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Authority Brands Closes Out 2025 With Strong Franchise Growth

Authority Brands Closes Out 2025 With Strong Franchise Growth, Building on a Three-Year Acceleration in New Franchise Owners and Territories  

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Family has always been at the heart of everything for sisters&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/griswold-franchise-oklahoma-city-north-manar-landis-maha-zirn-kashoor-2730454">Manar Landis and Maha Zirn-Kashoor,</a> so when they began looking for a new business venture, it only made sense that they’d do it together. Today, the pair are proud&nbsp;<a href="https://griswoldhomecarefranchise.com/">Griswold</a> franchisees, combining their complementary skills and shared compassion to make a difference in the lives of seniors and&nbsp; families in their community. For Zirn-Kashoor and Landis, the decision to go into business together was as natural as their lifelong connection.“The short answer,” Zirn-Kashoor said, “is that it’s always the right time as a family to be together. We were both in the right place to start that one.”Though life had taken them in different directions — with families, careers and homes of their own — the sisters never lost touch. “We were always in contact,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “Almost every year we saw each other. So when the idea of the business came, it was only natural that we were both ready for it and said, ‘Let’s go for it.’”That shared readiness made the decision simple: it was time to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/griswold/how-griswold-home-care-provided-a-more-meaningful-career-for-these-franchisees-amid-the-pandemic-2715838">build something meaningful together</a>.<h2>From Sisters to Business Partners</h2>Transitioning from family members to business partners came smoothly for the pair. “Because we know each other quite well, it came very naturally,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “We recognized my strength, her strength, where we can complement each other — and it’s working so far.”The two sisters developed a natural division of responsibilities, allowing each to focus on what she does best. That balance has only strengthened their bond. “It brought us even closer to each other,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “Usually, when you have family, each one goes to their business or work and then maybe you meet at dinner or on weekends. Now we are combining all this — we see each other even more now. It added positively to the dynamic.”<h2>Why Griswold?</h2>When it came time to choose a brand, Landis led the research — and&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/griswold/info">Griswold</a> quickly stood out. “She asked around, looked into different franchises, and it was the reputation of Griswold,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “From the first moment we spoke with them, it felt like we were joining a family.”That sense of belonging only deepened as they met other franchisees. “They are very professional, but there is also a warm environment,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “When we met other franchisees at a couple of events, it felt like family. It just enhanced our feeling that this is the right company we want to join.”<h2>A Family-Owned Business With a Human Mission</h2>As sisters and co-owners, Zirn-Kashoor and Landis believe their family connection adds real value to how they lead their business and care for their clients. “It’s an added value to be family working together,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “We know how to divide the work, who’s responsible for what, and sometimes we combine our efforts on certain areas where we can bring an even better outcome.”That collaboration is rooted in shared purpose. For the sisters, Griswold’s mission resonated deeply. “The story of Jean Griswold is very touching and impressive,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “It’s not money-oriented — it’s very human and people-oriented. That’s what really drove us. Otherwise, any business you can start somewhere and think about profit. This is not the easiest one, but we chose it on purpose because we can relate to it … When you think about it, we are helping vulnerable people — people in need — and that’s something we are already proud of.”<h2>Building a Legacy of Care and Connection</h2>More than just a business, Zirn-Kashoor and Landis see their Griswold franchise as a legacy — one rooted in compassion and community. “We are certain that our hard work will bring very fruitful income,” Zirn-Kashoor said, “and we hope that this is the legacy we can keep as a name for us, for our children and for our family later on. There cannot be a better legacy than helping people in need and caring for the community.”Even amid the challenges of launching a business, the sisters have found unexpected joy in the journey. “The most surprising part is how much fun we are having,” Zirn-Kashoor said. “We knew we would enjoy it, but we didn’t know it would start from day one. We keep reminding each other not to forget to have fun and enjoy the journey.”

Why Two Sisters Chose Now to Build a Purpose-Driven Home Care Business With Griswold

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Family has always been the center of life for&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/local-siblings-launch-caring-transitions-of-somerset-county-to-build-legacy-and-serve-seniors-with-compassion-2730564">Ashley and Tarik “Sal” Seawright</a>, siblings and co-owners of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caringtransitionsfranchise.com/">Caring Transitions</a> of Somerset County, New Jersey, which opened in September 2025. For this brother-sister duo — who come from a family of 13 siblings — launching their own business wasn’t just a professional milestone, but a continuation of their family’s legacy of care, connection and service. After years of building successful careers outside of the senior care industry, both Ashley and Sal recognized a deeper call to service. For Ashley, this meant leveraging her extensive experience in corporate organization and management to find a purpose-driven venture.“In all of my experiences, I’ve focused on moving forward and on family,” Ashley said. “But I needed to find something that would allow me to run it on my own and give back. Making a daily impact was missing for me.”<h2>When Family Timing Meets the Right Opportunity</h2>For Ashley, family has always guided her path. “The main thing for us is always legacy and family,” she said. “That is really how we’ve lived our whole lives. There are 13 of us in our immediate family, and that’s why family has been at the forefront.”After 20 years in corporate America, working in office and event management roles — including time at the Food Network — Ashley was ready for a new challenge.&nbsp;Sal, meanwhile, had spent nearly a decade running his own moving business. His introduction to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/info">Caring Transitions</a> came by chance. “I met an owner of Caring Transitions who hired me to do some moving for him,” he said. “He later told me I already had the crew, the skills and the reliable service — I understood what it would take to do this type of work.”That experience stuck with him. “My father always had a dream of us opening a business together,” Sal said. “Knowing this business and knowing the ins and outs, I knew it would be hard to handle all of it myself. Ashley seemed like the best person professionally and the best person to bring in on this endeavor.”<h2>Why Caring Transitions?</h2>With Sal’s operational experience and Ashley’s organizational and management background, Caring Transitions — a franchise focused on senior relocation, downsizing and estate sales — was a perfect fit.“The market was a big selling point,” Sal said. “I already had a lot of clients in 55-and-older communities. It takes a particular skill to do that work with compassion and care. We grew up around older family members, so we understand that generation and the patience it requires. There’s a lack of compassion in this field, and we knew we could bring that human touch.”Ashley agrees, noting that&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/caringtransitions/10-reasons-why-caring-transitions-stands-out-among-other-franchises-2727831">Caring Transitions felt different from the start</a>. “It’s important to live the brand,” she said. “Everyone we met was so passionate about what they do. Caring Transitions stood out more than any other franchise — especially since Sal already had the experience. The support you get from corporate is unprecedented. They really want you to have the tools to succeed.”Together, they’ve divided their responsibilities based on their strengths. “I’m the COO and she’s the CFO,” Sal said. “I handle operations, moving and customer service. Ashley ensures everything is paid and invoiced correctly, and she’ll be leading our estate sales.”&nbsp;“I’m handling the behind-the-scenes work, connecting with leads and doing consultations,” Ashley said. “I love talking with people, and I’m looking forward to expanding that aspect with the brand.”<h2>Building a Business and a Legacy</h2>The Seawrights’ vision&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/mastering-multi-unit-franchise-ownership-2725555">goes beyond a single franchise</a> — it’s about growth, sustainability and impact. “By this time next year, we’re looking at having five franchises,” Sal said. “We’re hoping to add two more by the end of next year. The goal is to make it as big as possible.”Ashley emphasizes that their growth ambitions are rooted in legacy and community. “We want to expand our legacy as a family with Caring Transitions,” she said. “We can work together and work for our family. We want to make sure we have the right systems and support in place for our employees — they’re good at what they do, and we want to give them every tool they need.”<h2>Lessons in Family and Franchising</h2>While many people warn against going into business with family, Ashley and Sal have a different perspective. “When people say don’t go into business with family, it’s because they can’t separate the business from the personal,” Sal said.“Don’t go into business with your family unless you’re clear on your goals,” Ashley said. “You have to understand each other’s strengths. Sal has the operational skill set, and he’s also aware of what he needed to add — my skills. Siblings know what the other is good at. It’s about cultivating your talent and delegating it out. It’s not always smooth sailing, but we trust each other’s judgment. For families in franchising, you need candor, trust, and a shared goal. Who can you trust if you can’t trust your family?”

Why Two Siblings Saw a Growing Need for Compassionate Senior Support — and Chose Caring Transitions to Build Their Family Legacy

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For 10 years,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/gcosentino/">Giovanni Cosentino</a> built a corporate career as an executive assistant and project manager in various industries, including electric vehicles, blockchain, finance and adtech. Then, after a 2024 end-of-year layoff, Cosentino saw an opportunity to take control of his career path. Rather than jumping back into the corporate job market, he decided to apply his robust background in management and leadership to a new adventure, business ownership, recognizing that his background in organizing complex projects would serve as the perfect foundation for running a small business.Motivated to become his own boss, Cosentino turned to franchising. He liked the stability of service-based businesses and the demand for reliable home improvement. From here, he began narrowing down the opportunities. This led him to&nbsp;<a href="http://freshcoatfranchise.com">Fresh Coat Painters</a>, the national painting franchise. He's now getting ready for his official grand opening and excited to begin serving the Westchester community.Cosentino took the time to chat with 1851 Franchise to discuss all of this and more. Here’s what he had to say:1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?Giovanni Cosentino:&nbsp;My father was a dentist for almost 45 years in the Hudson Valley, and I admired his work ethic and his ability to make people smile with his sense of humor and skill. I grew up locally and earned my degree at Purchase College here in Westchester County. I’ve always wanted to be helpful to others, doing something similar to what my father was able to achieve, but in my own way.&nbsp;I’ve always been an independent person and a leader, managing people and projects really well. If something has my name on it, it will be good work. That's how I live my life: doing the best I can at whatever I put my hands to.1851: What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?Cosentino:&nbsp;I spent nearly 10 years in my career as an executive assistant and project manager, but unfortunately, layoffs impacted my position at the end of 2024.Following that, the job search felt different from any other time. I looked at my skill set and knew my experience would translate well into business ownership. I realized this was an opportune time to bet on myself.1851:&nbsp;What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Cosentino:&nbsp;I explored over a dozen franchises, but I was being very selective as I didn’t like what their FDD stats were or the niche element of their business model. I was almost ready to move on and figure something else out, but then I spoke with&nbsp;<a href="http://1851franchise.com/freshcoat/info">Fresh Coat Painters</a> as my last franchise for consideration. It was the only one that felt like I could make it work. Having navigated multiple economic challenges, I’ve learned that blue-collar trades are always in demand. Painting, in particular, is a recession-resistant industry that tends to thrive even in uncertain times.Fresh Coat allows owners the flexibility to operate their business how they see fit while providing essential guidance and support, like an onboarding coach and a business coach. I also really appreciate the community of other franchisees; experienced members have been exceptionally helpful. Having this network resolves issues of not knowing where to turn or encountering challenges for the first time.1851:&nbsp;What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?&nbsp;Cosentino:&nbsp;My plan is to bring a new level of professionalism to the industry. I want to be known as someone who can deliver outstanding results, managing a crew of well-trained and vetted painters using the highest quality products. We want to transform client spaces into a personal retreat, an oasis of atmosphere, or a comfortable abode.&nbsp;Over time, we will expand to provide full interior and exterior house painting, eventually lending our services and ethos to improving commercial spaces. We are also considering expanding to decks, cabinet painting, power washing and removing or adding popcorn ceiling and wallpapering.1851:&nbsp;What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?Cosentino:&nbsp;Just like any other kind of business, make sure you have the appropriate amount of funds available for your venture. The initial franchise fee is not the only cost; you need additional capital for the “runway” before you actually generate revenue.&nbsp;Understand that it will take a large amount of your time, energy and resources to bring it all to life. But in the end, I genuinely believe it could be one of the most worthwhile endeavors anyone can do, with results that can sustain a family and bring great value to your clients and community.ABOUT FRESH COAT PAINTERS:Fresh Coat Painters, the residential and commercial painting franchise under the Strategic Franchising Systems umbrella, offers a low-cost business model that gives entrepreneurs from all walks of life the chance to become successful business owners in the communities they serve. Since starting in 2004, Fresh Coat has expanded to over 190 franchise locations nationwide. Thanks to its unparalleled professionalism and affordable business model, it has become one of the leading concepts in the booming residential and commercial painting segment. With continued year-over-year growth, Fresh Coat is well on its way to achieving its overall goal of becoming a truly iconic painting brand.&nbsp;

Former Project Manager and Executive Assistant Swaps Corporate Life for Fresh Coat Painters Ownership

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<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/fernando-degwitz-202227202/">Fernando Degwitz</a> grew up in Venezuela and built his career in civil engineering and real estate development before moving to Miami to pursue an MBA at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. As he dug into entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA) opportunities, he realized the heavy leverage involved did not match the level of risk he was comfortable taking.A friend introduced him to franchising as a way to bypass startup risks without taking on massive debt. Initially skeptical, Degwitz quickly saw the value: a proven brand, strong support systems and the ability to combine his construction expertise with a personal mission — helping families care for aging loved ones, inspired by his own mother’s struggles with mobility.In October, Degwitz officially launched his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trubluefranchise.com/">TruBlue Home Service Ally</a> franchise, bringing professional home maintenance and aging-in-place solutions to the Miami market. His vision is to grow a $30 million business while creating meaningful impact for families throughout South Florida.Degwitz took the time to chat with the 1851 Franchise to discuss all of this and more. Here’s what he had to say:1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?Fernando Degwitz:&nbsp;I am originally Venezuelan, born and raised. I went to an American high school, which is where I learned how to speak English. Once I graduated, I went to college in Boston — Tufts and then MIT — where I did civil engineering and economics. When I graduated, I went back to Venezuela where I did real estate development and construction. I did all sorts of projects from residential to industrial, retail and commercial.It became difficult to operate any of my business lines in Venezuela. I started to look outside and began a real estate development project in Panama. At the same time, I started doing my MBA at Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management, which has a campus here in Miami. I moved to Miami and then the pandemic hit. I finished the MBA virtually and, last year, started investigating franchises1851: What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?Degwitz:&nbsp;When I was doing my MBA, there was a concept that is really popular in MBA schools right now called “entrepreneurship through acquisition” where you essentially buy a company that's already operating to get past the startup risk. I did a lot of research, went to the ETA conference and interviewed brokers. As I was doing it, I realized that other buyers were willing to take much bigger risks than I was.I realized that buying an existing business replaces "startup risk" with "leverage risk." In Miami, you would need to buy a larger company to make a decent living, meaning you take on a significant amount of debt and put in a personal guarantee without really knowing what you are buying. A friend of mine from Kellogg was really into franchising and started to talk to me about it. I started to look at it as another way of getting past the startup risk without having the leverage. You don't have the operation in the location you are trying to open, but you do have that brand experience at a national level1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?Degwitz:&nbsp;Honestly, my own sense of franchising was that it is entrepreneurship for people who don't have the experience. I kind of looked down on it initially. This might be affected by my experience in Latin America. Once I was here in the U.S., and perhaps through my MBA experience, I started to understand the importance of a brand and not having to create it yourself. It took me a while to understand that my way of looking at it was completely wrong. The value in joining a franchise and not having to take that startup risk is immense.Now that I am in it, I would say that the day-to-day is very similar operationally to running your own business, because you are. It feels just as exciting as running your own thing, but it removes a lot of the negative emotions that come from the uncertainty of not knowing if you are doing the right thing, especially in marketing.1851:&nbsp;What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Degwitz:&nbsp;Beyond the economic sense tied to my construction background, I wanted to do something valuable for the community. On a personal level, my mother lives in Europe and has recently suffered falls. It is difficult to make modifications to her rental unit from so far away. I wanted to be in a business where I could make a difference for families in similar situations.&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/info">TruBlue</a> offers that perfect combination of operating a successful business while "doing good" for society.1851:&nbsp;What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?&nbsp;Degwitz:&nbsp;My vision is to expand from our current location in Pinecrest all the way North to West Palm Beach with professional management in place. To achieve that, I am focused on two key elements: finding the right people, starting with technicians and eventually office staff, and implementing the right systems and operational processes.1851:&nbsp;Is there anything else about your story you want us to know?Degwitz:&nbsp;Family is the most important thing to me. If I can help families take care of their homes, I believe that creates happier families. That is my personal and professional mission1851:&nbsp;What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?Degwitz:&nbsp;Do a lot of validation calls. You need to understand how current franchisees feel about the brand. Don't get discouraged by one bad call, as it might just be a bad match for that specific person; instead, look for the general sentiment. I personally "dodged a couple of bullets" by doing thorough validation calls.About TruBlue Home Service Ally:TruBlue Home Service Ally® provides a unique and affordable approach to helping busy adults and seniors live a worry-free life by offering trustworthy handyman, home maintenance and senior modification services. Helping you maintain your home both inside and out, TruBlue’s services include handyman projects and to-do list chores, preventative home maintenance programs, kitchen and bath remodels, seasonal work, and senior modification services, all handled by professional, bonded and insured Tru-Pro® Technicians. TruBlue franchise owners are required to complete senior home safety certification programs through the NAHB and Age Safe America. As certified specialists, TruBlue franchisees are able to perform aging in place home safety assessments and can make recommended safety modifications as needed.

image of fernando Degwitz from tru blu franchise franchisee owner of Pinecrest, Brickell

Civil Engineer and MBA Grad Fernando Degwitz Combines Business and Community Impact With TruBlue Franchise

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How much can franchisees make? It’s a question many prospective owners ask before investing in a franchise. While earnings tend to be driven by variables such as industry, location and general management skills, a proper understanding of the key factors driving profitability can help franchise owners develop expectations that are realistic.&nbsp;Multi-unit franchisee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mangesh-patel-9368569/">Mangesh Patel</a>, who’s readying the launch of six&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beefobradysfranchise.com/">Beef ‘O’ Brady’s</a> restaurant locations in the Macon, Georgia area, shares insights from his franchising experience.<h2>Understanding Franchise Income</h2>Keeping operational costs in check can have a major impact on overall earnings. Taking a proactive approach to expenses such as food and labor, as well as payroll and scheduling, can help align actual franchise income with general expectations for the business.“I just had a meeting with a couple of people, and they said, ‘You talked about a 25% profit margin, but I’m only doing 12%.’ So, I looked at the figures they sent me,” Patel said. “Their&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/calculate-restaurant-franchise-profit-2730476">restaurant</a> food cost was running at 37%, which should be around 30%. The national average is about 32%. If I do things correctly, my average food cost needs to be at or below 30%. And payroll should run around 18%. But many people run 25 to 28%.”So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/unraveling-franchise-earnings-how-much-can-you-really-make-2723935">how much can franchisees make</a>? Here are five areas to consider.<h2>Practical Tips for Prospective Franchisees</h2><ol><li>Control Costs From Day One:&nbsp;It’s important to monitor payroll, food and supply costs closely. Overstaffing and inefficiencies can quickly reduce profits.</li><li>Plan For The Opening Surge:&nbsp;Traffic within the first few months of opening is likely to be higher. It’s important to adjust staffing and inventory accordingly, and pay close attention to how those levels change as time goes on.</li><li>Invest In Training:&nbsp;Properly trained workers can help reduce waste and improve overall service, which has a direct effect on net income.</li><li>Understand Your Market:&nbsp;Each market is unique and revenue potential will vary depending upon location, demographics and competition.</li><li>Track Metrics Regularly:&nbsp;Food cost percentages, labor ratios and weekly sales data act as key indicators operations may need to be adjusted.</li></ol><h2>What Profitability Really Comes Down To</h2>Patel notes that if franchise owners manage labor and costs properly, it’s not impossible to achieve strong cash flow even in the first year, bucking some franchising trends.So,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-can-you-make-as-a-franchise-owner-2724761">how much can franchisees make</a>? While results tend to vary, careful planning, disciplined operations and a proactive approach to assessing initial costs are essential. But by grasping and guiding the elements that drive franchise profitability, franchise owners can maximize overall business earnings, scaling a business that’s sustainable financially over the long term.Want to learn more about franchise opportunities on 1851 Franchise? Be sure to visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/power-rankings">Power Rankings</a> to read more on brands making moves.

How Much Can Franchisees Make? A Guide for Prospective Franchise Owners

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<a href="https://www.chick-fil-a.com/franchise">Chick-fil-A</a> is one of the most recognizable names in the quick-service restaurant industry. With its signature chicken sandwiches, customer-first culture and impressive per-unit sales, the brand is often at the top of the list for entrepreneurs researching restaurant franchises. But if you’re wondering how to buy a franchise with&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-rise-of-chick-fil-a-americas-number-one-chicken-franchise-2727483#stories">Chick-fil-A</a>, you’ll quickly realize that this opportunity comes with a unique set of requirements — and not everyone qualifies.<h2>Chick-fil-A Franchise Requirements</h2>Chick-fil-A is different from most restaurant franchises because it doesn’t take a large amount of money to get started.&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/how-much-does-a-chick-fil-a-franchise-cost-2715278#stories">The franchise fee is $10,000</a>, and applicants don’t need to show a specific net worth or liquid assets. The lower cost, however, comes with a trade-off. The company has one of the toughest application processes in franchising and places strict rules on how the business must be run.To be considered for a Chick-fil-A franchise, applicants need to show that they can legally run a business in the United States and have a solid professional background. The brand generally looks for people with at least five years of work experience and some history of leading teams. A clean financial record is important, too, since anyone with a bankruptcy on file won’t move forward in the process. The $10,000 franchise fee has to come directly from the candidate’s own funds rather than loans or gifts. On top of that, operators are expected to commit to the restaurant full time, which means stepping away from other active business ventures and putting all of their focus into building and leading their Chick-fil-A location.Candidates also need to be fluent in written and spoken English and commit to full-time, hands-on involvement in the restaurant. In fact, Chick-fil-A expects its franchisees to divest from any other active business ventures so that they can focus entirely on operating their location.Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Chick-fil-A receives tens of thousands of applications each year but approves only about one percent, making the opportunity one of the most competitive in franchising.<h2>A Hands-On, Operational Model</h2>One thing that makes Chick-fil-A stand out is how it expects its restaurants to be run. Owners can’t just hire managers and step back like in many other franchises. Instead, operators are expected to be hands-on with the daily business.Chick-fil-A also keeps more control over key parts of the operation than most franchisors. The company chooses the location, builds the restaurant and provides the equipment. The operator’s main role is to deliver excellent service and lead a team that meets the brand’s standards.This is not a passive investment or a multi-unit opportunity. Chick-fil-A intentionally limits each franchisee to a single location, ensuring that operators are deeply engaged in leading their restaurant and contributing to the surrounding community. For many, this model is appealing because it emphasizes leadership and culture-building rather than simply financial investment.<h2>Why It Matters</h2>For people thinking about franchising, Chick-fil-A’s requirements show why the brand is both appealing and difficult to get into. The low cost to start, the strong name recognition and the sales numbers make it one of the most appealing restaurant franchises out there, but the rules and competitive selection process make it a tough opportunity to land.On the other hand, the strict operational structure, high profit-sharing arrangement and extremely competitive application process can make it a tough fit for entrepreneurs who want more flexibility or who prefer to run multiple concepts at once.If you are considering how to buy a franchise with Chick-fil-A, it’s important to carefully evaluate whether you align with the brand’s expectations. The operators who tend to do well are the ones who like being in the restaurant every day, working with their team and serving customers. For people who want to be closely involved in one business, the Chick-fil-A model can be both profitable and satisfying.For more info on Chick-fil-A, check out these related stories on 1851 Franchise:<ul><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/chick-fil-a-takes-the-crown-as-the-nations-premier-chicken-chain-2727486#stories">Chick-fil-A Takes the Crown as the Nation’s Premier Chicken Chain</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-owning-a-chick-fil-a-franchise-2725069#stories">The Pros and Cons of Owning a Chick-fil-A Franchise</a></li><li><a href="https://1851franchise.com/chick-fil-a-emerges-as-the-leader-in-the-us-chicken-chain-industry-2727457#stories">Chick-fil-A Emerges as the Leader in the U.S. Chicken Chain Industry</a></li></ul>

Do You Qualify? A Look at the Chick-fil-A Franchise Requirements

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