First-Time Franchisee: Leniesha Norwood Shares Why She Bought a Frios Gourmet Pops

At the beginning of 2023, Leniesha Norwood made a crucial decision to leave her job in the health care industry and enter the world of franchising with Frios Gourmet Pops. 1851 Franchise sat down with her to learn about why she did it, what she’s learned so far and what she wants to accomplish with her business. 

Norwood’s Franchise Journey

Before franchising, Norwood was a registered nurse, working in the intensive and progressive care units. After working in hospitals through the COVID-19 pandemic, she started reevaluating her long-term career decision. With her husband’s lawn care business, homeschooling and taking care of her family, Norwood had a lot on her plate. She started exploring opportunities that would allow her more time with loved ones, which led her to meeting a franchise advisor. 

“Originally, I did not know very much about franchises,” said Norwood. “When somebody would say the word ‘franchise,’ I would think of McDonald's, Burger King — the big chains. I didn't think about all of the smaller franchises that were out there.” 

The franchise advisor provided Norwood with a few options, including Frios, a mobile franchise serving popsicles on wheels.  

“He pointed out Frios to me and told me it was an up-and-coming franchise that was really family-friendly,” Norwood explained. “I was looking for something to build generational wealth and teach my kids how to work hard. I also wanted something we could do together. Being a nurse, I was gone all the time. So I thought this would be something great for our family.”  

Within the first day of interest, Norwood received a call from CEO Cliff Kennedy, who took the time to explain what the brand was all about. Norwood was sold and decided to become a franchise owner. 

The Biggest Lessons Learned

Norwood says that one of the biggest lessons she has learned is that franchising takes sacrifice. 

“There has been sacrifice in places that I couldn't imagine,” she said. “I thought maybe coming into it that popsicles were going to be very easy. And really, nothing is truly easy. You have to put work behind everything. That's like the biggest thing I've been learning — you have to get out there outside of your comfort zone.” 

When it comes to advice for prospective franchise owners, Norwood says that people should make sure they are prepared financially and that they are investing in something that is going to bring them personal joy. She recommends looking closely at how the company operates, talking with other franchisees and keeping an eye out for transparency. 

“It’s not just something that is going to affect you, it’s going to affect your family,” she noted. “So the appropriate company is key. When you’re going through the process, look at how happy the other franchisees are.” 

Norwood’s Plans for the Future

Looking ahead, Norwood wants to use her business with Frios to build consistent wealth to pass down to her children. She would also like to partner with the community and continue to build relationships. 

“I want the community to know not just who Frios is, but who I am personally,” she said. “I want people to see my personality shine through the business. It’s about serving people joy. Not just handing them a popsicle, but being able to build and develop relationships with business owners and with communities, and being able to leave a lasting impression on everyone that I meet.”