Author: Jamie Patterson

Why do so many entrepreneurs stall right before their next big breakthrough?

According to business growth coach and author Andrea Liebross, it’s because they’re stuck in what she calls the messy middle—that uncomfortable space between progress and possibility, where fear, doubt, and guilt start whispering that you’re in over your head.

The “Messy Middle” Moment

Andrea’s journey began in corporate America, where she spent a decade coaching new business owners through their startup phase. She noticed a clear pattern: after initial success, most entrepreneurs hit a point where the old strategies stopped working, and the excitement gave way to uncertainty.

“They start to doubt themselves. The business starts to feel heavy,” she told Rebecca and Tracy.

When her own creativity began to feel boxed in by corporate rules, Andrea decided to step out of the container entirely. She quit her job, hired her first coach, and began building a business designed to help others navigate that same transitional chaos.

The TRUST Model: A Framework for Big Thinking

Andrea’s work today revolves around helping entrepreneurs think bigger and trust the process of growth. Her TRUST Model breaks that mindset into five powerful steps:

T — Thought Options: You always have choices in how you think. Andrea likens it to selecting hors d’oeuvres at a party—you can keep grabbing the same “safe” option, or try something new.

R — Real Problem: Most “problems” in business aren’t logistical—they’re emotional. “The real problem is usually a feeling we don’t want to experience,” Andrea explains, whether it’s guilt, fear, or loss of control.

U — Uncertainty: Growth requires embracing the unknown. “Everything we ever wanted is on the other side of uncomfortable,” Andrea says.

S — Securing Support: We all need people who can see what we can’t. “You can’t read the label from inside the peanut butter jar,” she jokes—a reminder that mentors and coaches are essential for perspective.

T — Taking Massive Action: Knowledge without movement is just passive action. “Listening to a great podcast or reading a book isn’t enough,” she says. “You have to do something, even if it’s uncomfortable”.

Becoming the Wave Beneath Others

Toward the end of the conversation, Tracy Kawa offered a vivid metaphor:

“Andrea, you’re not the surfer—you’re the wave carrying business owners to their destination.”

It’s a fitting image. Andrea doesn’t just teach strategy—she propels people forward, giving them the courage and clarity to ride the next wave of their growth journey.

Final Takeaway

Andrea’s message is clear: success doesn’t come from avoiding discomfort. It comes from trusting yourself enough to act anyway.

Whether you’re a franchisor, a franchisee, or an entrepreneur in any field, learning to embrace uncertainty and take massive action may be the very key to becoming your Future You.

When you think of leadership, storytelling may not be the first tool that comes to mind—but for Stephen Seidel, it’s the foundation of influence, connection, and meaningful business growth.

On this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa welcomed Stephen—TEDx speaker, founder of The Seidel Agency, and co-founder of Gents Journey—to explore how purposeful storytelling shapes not only companies, but legacies.

The Making of a Leader

Stephen’s passion for connection didn’t appear overnight. Raised by strong entrepreneurial women and shaped by moments of loss, reinvention, and resilience, he learned early that leadership is less about perfection and more about authenticity.

His work now centers on helping leaders step into transparency, share their story, and build communities rooted in purpose. As he shared during the interview, many business owners—especially franchise owners—don’t realize how meaningful their personal story is to the people they serve.

Connection as Currency

Stephen’s core philosophy—connection as currency—guides how he supports brands and franchise organizations. According to Stephen, connection is built when leaders:

✔ Tell meaningful, honest stories
✔ Show vulnerability instead of polished perfection
✔ Align their message with their mission
✔ Create environments where people feel seen

In franchising, where trust fuels investment, retention, culture, and brand loyalty, this approach is especially powerful.

Tools for Transformation

Stephen didn’t just share ideas—he shared practical tools.

One of his signature resources, The Journey Deck, includes deep, reflective questions designed to spark human connection in leadership teams, families, and communities. During the interview, he demonstrated how even a single question can unlock honesty, clarity, and growth.

These tools reinforce his belief that transformation begins with intentional reflection—and courageous conversation.

Purpose, Legacy, and Leadership

As the episode wrapped, Stephen shared the question that guides his next chapter:

How can I leave a legacy that elevates others?

For him, the answer is found in sharing knowledge, empowering others to embrace their stories, and creating communities where leaders—women and men—can grow with authenticity and intention.

Final Takeaway

Stephen left our listeners with this message:

💡 Everyone has a story. And when you share yours, you give others permission to grow, connect, and lead with purpose.

For anyone building a franchise, leading a team, or shaping a culture—this episode is a roadmap to connection-driven leadership.

When Rachel Southard first started working at a fitness franchise daycare at just 15 years old, she didn’t know that franchising would become her lifelong calling. But today—as CEO of ecomaids and Head of Brand Operations at Happinest Brands—she’s not only shaping the future of multi-brand platforms but redefining what it means to lead with empathy and authenticity.

Growing Up in Franchising

Rachel is one of the rare executives who truly “grew up” in franchising. Her first role was at Lady of America, a women’s fitness franchise, where she worked through college for a multi-unit owner. After graduating with a degree in kinesiology, Rachel found her second passion—technology—and joined a fitness software company that was later acquired by Anytime Fitness.

That acquisition marked her transition from franchisee support to the franchisor side, where she discovered her calling: coaching franchise owners to achieve measurable, sustainable success.

“It’s so rewarding to be part of those lightbulb moments,” Rachel shares. “When a franchisee learns how to track KPIs or finally hits their profit goals, you can see the confidence shift.”

Building Systems and Scaling Brands

Today, Rachel oversees multiple brands within the Happinest portfolio, including ecomaids, where she serves as CEO. Her approach centers on alignment, collaboration, and systemization across all brands while maintaining space for individuality.

“Our motto is everything the same, different for a reason,” she explains. “The goal is consistency where it matters—but flexibility when it makes sense.”

This philosophy echoes throughout her leadership style: find what works, replicate success, but leave room for innovation and context. For example, ecomaids differs from outdoor service brands in that it “crosses the threshold” into customers’ homes—a distinction that changes everything from marketing to staffing to customer care.

Empathy as a Leadership Superpower

Rachel attributes much of her leadership success to empathy—a skill she’s honed not just in business but at home.

“My husband is an empathy expert,” she laughs. “He’s taught me how to lead with curiosity instead of assumption.”

That mindset allows Rachel to build genuine connections with her teams, franchisees, and brand leaders.

“If you’re not leading with empathy, you’re not really leading,” she says. “Everyone comes from different experiences. The job of a leader is to understand how they got where they are.”

Her approach has also made her a pioneer in remote leadership—something she practiced long before the pandemic. Working from Texas while managing teams based in Minneapolis forced her to adopt digital tools like Slack and Teams early on, creating systems for communication and accountability that remain part of her leadership framework today.

Redefining Success and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

As a woman in executive leadership, Rachel understands the quiet pressure many women feel to “have it all figured out.”

“There’s no silver bullet,” she insists. “No one has it figured out. We’re all learning and adapting every day.”

She believes comparison is the root of imposter syndrome—and the enemy of progress.

“You can’t compare a 40-unit franchise system to a 4,000-unit one. They’re just different journeys,” she says. “And that’s okay.”

Profitability Starts with People

For Rachel, relationships and results are inseparable.

“I don’t have profitability as a franchisor if my franchisees don’t,” she explains. “If I don’t focus on unit-level profitability first, there is no revenue for the platform.”

Her philosophy is simple: strong relationships fuel strong returns. Franchise business coaches at ecomaids work closely with owners to understand their P&Ls, set benchmarks, and tie every operational improvement back to the bottom line.

The Future of Franchising

Looking ahead, Rachel predicts continued private equity investment—but with necessary consolidation among platform companies.

“Those who focus on doing what’s best for franchisees will win,” she says. “Those chasing rapid growth without profitability will eventually crumble.”

Her advice for emerging franchisors is timeless: focus on relationships, lead with empathy, and never stop learning.

Final Thoughts

Rachel Southard’s journey from a teenage fitness employee to an award-winning CEO is proof that great leaders aren’t defined by how much they know—but by their willingness to keep growing. Her story is a call to every franchise professional to stay curious, stay adaptable, and stay connected.

When Passion Meets Purpose: The Story of Pool Scouts’ First Franchisee

Few stories embody courage, authenticity, and growth quite like Tiffiny Consoli’s. As the very first Pool Scouts franchisee under Buzz Franchise Brands, Tiffiny built more than a thriving business — she built a legacy of leadership that inspires franchisees across the country.

From Plants to Pools: A Spirit of Adventure

Tiffiny’s entrepreneurial spark ignited early. In her 20s, she co-founded a small plantscaping business in Colorado, learning firsthand what it meant to take risks, manage expenses, and create beauty through hard work. That sense of adventure — nurtured by a mother who encouraged exploration — became a lifelong compass guiding her through every career move.

Finding Confidence and Courage at REI

After years in sales and corporate roles, Tiffiny joined REI, where she discovered not just a love for the outdoors but also a company culture that celebrated authenticity. It was there she found the freedom to fully be herself — a turning point that strengthened her confidence as both a leader and a person.
That experience taught her the importance of inclusive workplaces and helped her recognize that true leadership begins when we stop hiding parts of who we are.

Diving into Franchising

When Buzz Franchise Brands launched Pool Scouts, Tiffiny saw her opportunity to combine her love of service, the outdoors, and leadership. Despite being new to the industry, she took the leap — becoming Pool Scouts’ first franchisee and helping shape the systems and culture of the brand from the ground up.

Her courage paid off. With just one van and a determination to deliver exceptional service, Tiffiny built her business step by step, eventually growing into a $3 million powerhouse with over 20 vehicles and a reputation for excellence.

Lessons in Leadership and Balance

Tiffiny admits that success brought challenges — especially around people-pleasing and boundaries. Like many women leaders, she once equated being liked with being effective. Over time, she learned that strong leadership sometimes means making tough decisions, even when they’re not popular.

Her journey through ownership became a mirror for personal growth: learning when to delegate, when to say no, and how to create balance without losing passion.

What’s Next?

Today, Tiffiny and her wife are planning their next season — one that may include mentoring other business owners and exploring life beyond day-to-day operations. As she transitions toward hiring a general manager, her focus is on creating a business that thrives without her constant oversight — a true mark of sustainable success.

Words of Wisdom

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Tiffiny’s advice is both practical and profound:

“Listen to your inner voice. Build relationships. Learn the financial side. And never be afraid to ask for help.”

Her story reminds us that courage and connection can take you farther than you ever imagined — even from tube socks to multimillion-dollar success.

In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa explore one of the most striking career transitions imaginable—from probation officer to beauty industry CEO. Their guest, Melanie Richards, founder and CEO of GoGlow, proves that passion and purpose can shine through even the darkest moments.

A Purpose Born from Advocacy

Before creating her beauty empire, Melanie spent over a decade working in the criminal justice system, primarily serving women impacted by domestic violence. As a probation officer in Hennepin County, Minnesota, she became a fierce advocate for victims—helping to establish Domestic Abuse Service Centers that united law enforcement, attorneys, and victim advocates under one roof.

Melanie’s drive came from a deep belief that women deserve safety, dignity, and a voice. She fought to change a system that often failed the very people it was meant to protect. But that level of emotional intensity came with a cost. After years of trauma exposure and one devastating case involving a triple homicide, Melanie faced PTSD and a choice: continue fighting in a broken system—or find a new way to heal and make a difference.

A Healing Pivot Toward Beauty

Her next chapter started unexpectedly—with a spray tan. During her recovery, Melanie enrolled in the Aveda Institute’s esthiology program, hoping to find creativity and connection again. A single positive experience with a spray tan sparked an idea that would change her life.

Using a $5,000 credit card limit, she bought her first spray tan machine and started offering mobile appointments. What began as a side hustle quickly grew into a thriving business—and eventually, a franchise model known for innovation, vegan skincare, and client-centered experiences.

Clean Beauty with a Conscience

Today, GoGlow stands out in the beauty industry for its plant-based, antioxidant-rich solutions, patented air filtration systems, and commitment to clean air and clean skin. Melanie designed every product and process with both clients and technicians in mind—reducing exposure to harmful ingredients and creating a safer, more luxurious environment.

Under her leadership, GoGlow has expanded rapidly, with 20 open locations, dozens more in development, and over 100 territories sold since launching its franchise model in 2023.

Empowering Franchisees Through Honesty and Responsibility

For Melanie, franchising isn’t just about business—it’s about shared responsibility. She’s intentional about attracting early franchisees who understand what it means to join an emerging brand—people willing to educate their communities, grow alongside her, and embrace the company’s purpose.

“This isn’t an absentee business,” she says. “It’s for people ready to pour into something now, to be part of its foundation.”

Her approach is rooted in transparency and empowerment—the same principles that guided her advocacy work years ago.

Legacy and Leadership

When asked about her legacy, Melanie’s answer was simple and profound:

“I want to be remembered as someone who fought hard—for justice, for empowerment, for people who didn’t have a voice.”

That spirit infuses every GoGlow salon, every franchise partnership, and every customer interaction. From justice to glow, Melanie Richards has built more than a brand—she’s built a movement of women helping women shine brighter.

#FranchiseWomanPodcast #GoGlow #FemaleFounders #EmpowermentThroughBeauty #CleanBeautyFranchise #WomenInBusiness #FranchisingWithPurpose

In a world where business often moves faster than the human heart can follow, Nuttha Goutier, Founder and CEO of Sabai Thai Spa, reminds us that true success is born from kindness, authenticity, and care for others.

On this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, host Rebecca Monet, CEO and Chief Scientist at Zorakle Profiles, sits down with Nuttha to explore what it means to scale a business without losing the soul that made it special. From her roots in Thailand to her thriving franchise system in North America, Nuttha shares how she turned her cultural heritage and heart-centered philosophy into a business model that’s transforming the wellness industry.

From Thailand to North America: A Journey of Purpose

Born in Thailand and raised in a small village without electricity, Nuttha learned early that true well-being comes from community, mindfulness, and natural healing. “We care for our body, our mind, and our spirit,” she explained. “It’s in our DNA. It’s a way of life passed down for generations.”

When she moved to Canada in 2001, Nuttha noticed something missing in Western wellness culture—the sense of balance and connection that defines Thai living. “I felt there was a need to bring Thai healing experiences to the local community,” she said. That realization led to the creation of Sabai Thai Spa in 2005, a brand that transports guests into a sanctuary of peace through the five senses—sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell.

The Meaning of “Sabai Sabai”

The name Sabai carries profound significance. In Thai, “Sabai Sabai” means contentment, relaxation, harmony, and peace. It’s more than a word—it’s a mindset and a lifestyle. “In Thailand, people use ‘Sabai Sabai’ all the time,” Nuttha explained. “It means I’m good. I’m calm. I’m at peace.”

At Sabai Thai Spa, that spirit is woven into every guest experience. From the aroma of Thai herbs to the rhythm of custom music synchronized to the human heartbeat, every element is designed to help guests relax, breathe, and reconnect.

Blending Business and Heart

What sets Nuttha apart is her ability to combine a deep sense of compassion with a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Her franchise model is built not just on operational excellence, but on human connection.

“I lead with heart,” she said. “My goal is to help people live better and longer. Success for me isn’t about how many locations I open—it’s about how many lives I can improve.”

That philosophy extends to her franchisees. Nuttha believes that the foundation of a successful franchise system is kindness—both toward oneself and others. “My father always told me, ‘Kindness is your superpower.’ That’s what I live by and what I teach my team,” she shared.

When selecting franchise partners, she looks for those who share her values: people who care deeply about others and are willing to lead with empathy. “If you do everything from your heart, people can feel it,” she said. “That’s what makes our brand special.”

Ancient Traditions, Modern Business

Sabai Thai Spa’s model blends centuries-old Thai healing traditions with the structure and scalability of franchising. Each location follows a carefully developed protocol that engages all five senses and maintains cultural authenticity. Therapists are trained not only in technique but also in the philosophy of mindfulness and compassion that defines Thai hospitality.

For Nuttha, maintaining this balance between culture and commerce is key. “We can take the best of both worlds,” she explained. “We can be driven and innovative like North Americans, but also remember to pause, breathe, and care for ourselves like we do in Thailand.”

Kindness, Persistence, and Purpose

As a business leader, wife, and mother of four, Nuttha understands the pressures that come with growth. Her advice for managing stress is simple yet profound: take a pause. “When you feel overwhelmed, breathe, and ask what’s truly important. The pressure is in our mind. When we slow down, we can handle things with clarity.”

For her, persistence and kindness go hand in hand. “If you lead with heart and stay consistent, you’ll reach your destination,” she said. “Kindness always wins.”

The Power of Self-Care

Nuttha’s message extends beyond business—it’s about life. She believes that regular self-care should be a routine, not a luxury. “Imagine if everyone got a massage every week,” she said with a smile. “We’d all be calmer, kinder, and more productive.”

Through her franchise, she’s helping to shift how people view wellness—from an indulgence to an essential part of a healthy, balanced life.

The Future of Sabai Thai Spa

With a growing network of franchise locations across North America, Sabai Thai Spa continues to expand while remaining true to its mission: to bring peace, harmony, and healing to every guest and community it touches.

Nuttha’s approach to leadership proves that kindness is not just good for the soul—it’s good for business. By building from the heart, she has created a brand that uplifts everyone it touches—employees, franchisees, and clients alike.

On a recent episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, hosts spotlighted Rachel Wommack, a franchisee of A Place At Home in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Rachel’s story is one of resilience, family inspiration, and an unwavering commitment to serving others.

From Nurse to Entrepreneur

Rachel’s path began in Gallup, New Mexico, where she grew up and started her career in health care. After earning her degree in 2007, she worked with the Indian Health Service before transitioning into skilled nursing and long-term care. Rising to a regional leadership role with Genesis, Rachel saw firsthand the gaps in elder care. Patients were often sent home without the extra support they needed to thrive.

Encouraged by her husband, she decided to take a leap and open her own agency. Rather than building everything from scratch, she turned to franchising, ultimately choosing A Place At Home. She was drawn to their alignment of values and the strong support system that gave her confidence to begin her entrepreneurial journey.

Challenges and Growth

While her nursing expertise made caregiving natural, Rachel faced a steep learning curve on the business side. Payroll, accounting, and back-office management were foreign to her, but with guidance from the A Place At Home franchise team, she gained the skills to balance both caregiving and business ownership.

Opening in the middle of COVID-19 added extra hurdles—networking was difficult, and building community relationships took patience. Yet Rachel persevered, leaning on her persistence and her team’s commitment to compassionate care. Today, her office is a trusted resource in Albuquerque, known for answering the call when families need help most.

Inspired by Family

Rachel’s grandmother, a nurse herself, had a profound influence on her life. She modeled strength, joy, and selflessness, showing Rachel that it was possible to balance career, family, and service to others. That example continues to guide Rachel’s leadership and her belief that caregiving is more than a business—it’s a calling.

She works closely with her care coordinator and staff to cultivate a culture of empathy, compassion, and responsiveness. Whether supporting someone for just a few weeks after surgery or providing long-term assistance, Rachel ensures her team approaches each client with dignity and kindness.

Building a Legacy

Rachel’s goal is simple but profound: to be remembered as a better employer, a better provider, and someone who worked tirelessly for the sake of others. She acknowledges that entrepreneurship is hard, but insists it’s worth it—especially when fueled by persistence, family support, and passion for the work.

As she put it, “Not everything will go the way you want, and not everyone has to like you. But if you keep fighting and surround yourself with the right support system, it is worth it.”

Rachel’s journey with A Place At Home shows that true leadership blends compassion with grit. Her story is an inspiring reminder that business ownership, when driven by purpose, can transform lives—not only for clients but for families, employees, and communities.

✨ Learn more about A Place At Home at aplaceathome.com.

On a recent episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, Rebecca Monet interviewed Jessi Brelsford, the visionary Founder & Chief Bud of Taste Buds Kitchen. What started as a hobby teaching kids to bake has grown into a nationwide franchise brand that creates community and connection through culinary entertainment.

A Sweet Beginning

Jessi’s path to entrepreneurship wasn’t a straight line. With a degree in economics from Harvard and a career in finance on Wall Street, she seemed destined for corporate success. Yet, something was missing. Seeking creativity and community, she began hosting cupcake-decorating parties for kids in a tiny New York apartment. Demand quickly grew, and what started as “Cupcake Kids” soon evolved into Taste Buds Kitchen—a space where all ages could experience the joy of cooking together.

Building a Culinary Playground

By 2010, Jessi opened the first Taste Buds Kitchen location in Chelsea, Manhattan. Today, the brand offers everything from kids’ birthday parties and summer camps to BYOB adult cooking classes and corporate team-building events. Each experience is designed as a “culinary playground”—a fun, educational environment where guests can learn new skills, try new foods, and make lasting memories.

“Our recipes aren’t meant to be tricky,” Jessi explained. “We’re not trying to train the next top chef—we’re creating approachable, fun experiences that bring people together.”

Franchising the Flavor

After years of running events across New York, Jessi began receiving requests from people across the country who wanted to bring Taste Buds Kitchen to their cities. In 2014, she franchised the brand, and the first franchise location opened in 2015. Today, there are nearly 40 kitchens nationwide, with ambitious goals to reach 200 locations in the next five years.

Jessi emphasizes that the best franchisees balance passion with profit. “It’s not enough to just love food or kids—you also need grit and a business mindset to succeed,” she said.

Pivoting with Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic tested every event-based business, but Taste Buds Kitchen adapted quickly. The team launched free online cooking clubs that attracted 25,000 kids nationwide, hosted virtual birthday parties and corporate events, and even delivered ingredient kits to keep families cooking together. These pivots not only kept the brand afloat but expanded its reach and relevance.

Creating Community, One Kitchen at a Time

For Jessi, Taste Buds Kitchen is about more than food—it’s about creating memories, building community, and helping entrepreneurs thrive. From families bonding over rainbow couscous salad to franchisees putting down roots in new cities, the impact of Taste Buds Kitchen goes far beyond the kitchen.

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? “Just do the next right thing. Follow the opportunity in front of you, and don’t be afraid to take the leap.”

✨ Learn more at tastebudskitchen.com and explore franchise opportunities here.

The Power of Courage, Creativity, and Connection: A Conversation with Chantel Soumis

When The Franchise Woman Podcast welcomes a guest, you can be sure the conversation will blend insight with inspiration—and this episode with Chantel Soumis is no exception. Hosted by Rebecca Monet, CEO and Chief Scientist at Zorakle Profiles, and co-host Tracy Kawa, this interview dives deep into the heart of branding, leadership, and the courage to build authentic communities.

From Freshman in Franchising to Fearless Connector

Rebecca introduced Chantel as a “freshman in franchising”—a description Chantel embraced wholeheartedly. Though new to the franchise world, she brings over two decades of marketing leadership experience spanning industries like pharma, SaaS, and big tech. Her transition into franchising, she shared, has been both eye-opening and deeply fulfilling.

“I didn’t even realize my parents were franchisees until recently,” Chantel laughed. “They owned BP gas stations, oil change facilities, even a popcorn business. Now, I see how much I learned from watching their strength and community involvement.”

Her fresh perspective, paired with deep respect for her entrepreneurial roots, fuels her approach to marketing and brand storytelling within the franchise community.

Craftiness Meets Strategy: A Marketer’s Superpower

Chantel’s creativity is rooted in her childhood, nurtured by a mother who taught her how to transform “nothing into something.” Whether they were crafting fairy houses or splashing paint on canvas, those early experiences instilled in Chantel a sense of resourcefulness that still defines her work today.

“I used to wear a pin that said Crafty as a Fox,” she shared. “It’s all about being resourceful—figuring things out, thriving in new situations, and finding joy in creation. That’s how I approach marketing, especially now with tools like AI.”

Her philosophy? Embrace the unknown, experiment fearlessly, and use curiosity as your greatest asset.

Confidence vs. Courage: A Lesson in Leadership

One of the most memorable parts of the conversation came when Chantel spoke about the difference between confidence and courage.

“I’ve always struggled with confidence,” she admitted. “But courage is different. Courage is doing the thing even when you’re afraid.”

She recounted the moment she reached out to actor Matthew McConaughey for an interview during the pandemic—an act of boldness that transformed her outlook on what’s possible.

“That moment taught me that nobody’s untouchable. We’re all human, and when you lead with authenticity and courage, opportunities open up.”

Rebecca reinforced the distinction beautifully: “Courage allows us to take initiative even when confidence isn’t there.” It’s a truth every entrepreneur, franchisor, and leader can relate to.

Fractional CMO: The Swiss Army Knife of Modern Marketing

In her current role as a fractional Chief Marketing Officer with Stay in Your Lane, Chantel combines creativity with data-driven strategy. The role, she explained, allows her to guide multiple brands simultaneously while leveraging insights across industries.

“As a fractional CMO, you see patterns across clients—you learn what works and what doesn’t,” she explained. “That perspective allows me to scale results faster and smarter.”

Rebecca affectionately dubbed her “a Swiss Army knife”—a multi-talented marketer who can adapt, solve, and create on the fly. Chantel laughed in agreement: “If you’re a head of marketing, you have to be. You wear every hat, and you learn every tool.”

The AI Era: Branding with Intention and Integrity

Chantel is also leading the charge in AI education and policy development through Train in Your Lane, a division of Stay in Your Lane. She emphasized that while AI opens incredible opportunities, companies must establish clear guidelines for safe and ethical use.

“If you’re putting sensitive data—like franchise financials—into public AI tools, that information can be exposed,” she cautioned. “Every brand needs an AI policy that defines what’s on the table and what’s off.”

Beyond compliance, Chantel believes AI can be an empowering ally for personal branding. Tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, she noted, can now interview you and generate an accurate brand strategy—something she calls a “personal assistant that knows you better than you know yourself.”

Building a Personal Brand That Resonates

When it comes to personal branding, Chantel’s advice is both practical and inspiring. She encourages everyone—from entrepreneurs to franchisees—to find the harmony between who they are and the work they love.

“User-generated content is your secret weapon,” she explained. “When employees and franchisees share your story in their own voice, you’re building an army of advocates.”

She recommends starting with self-awareness tools like DISC, Myers-Briggs, or Human Design, and then using AI to refine and express your authentic message online.

“It’s not about ego,” she added. “It’s about creating genuine connection. Every post, video, or article has the power to change someone’s day—or even their life.”

Passion, Purpose, and Play

Throughout the conversation, one thing became clear: Chantel’s enthusiasm is contagious. Whether she’s talking about creative play, strategic marketing, or courageous leadership, she radiates the joy of someone who truly loves what she does.

Rebecca summed it up perfectly:
“Your passion is contagious, Chantel. You’ve reminded us all that marketing isn’t just about metrics—it’s about meaning.”

Listen to the full episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide to hear more about Chantel’s journey, her wisdom on courage and creativity, and her fresh take on franchising in the age of AI.

On a recent episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast: Where Passion & Purpose Collide, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa spoke with Jessica Fialkovich, Founder and President of Exit Factor, an innovative franchise brand dedicated to helping business owners not only build profitable companies but also businesses that are sellable. With over a decade of experience in mergers and acquisitions, Jessica has overseen more than $250 million in business transactions, guided over 350 deals to the finish line, and worked with 700+ entrepreneurs to develop strategies for successful exits.

Lessons from Family History

Jessica’s entrepreneurial spirit runs deep in her family. Her grandfather once owned a thriving chain of pharmacies, but because he didn’t have an exit plan, he eventually sold his final location for pennies on the dollar and was forced to work for the very corporations he had resisted. This difficult chapter not only impacted his health but also shifted her parents’ views on entrepreneurship, teaching Jessica the dangers of building without planning for the future.

While her parents encouraged her to pursue a “safe and secure” career, Jessica’s own experience in the corporate world—being laid off during the 2008 financial crisis—revealed that nothing is truly safe. That moment sparked her decision to control her own destiny through entrepreneurship.

Learning Through Experience

Jessica’s first business was in the luxury wine industry. She and her husband grew the company, but when they decided to sell, they made the same mistakes many entrepreneurs do: no preparation, no tax strategy, and the wrong buyer. The fallout was painful, with employees losing jobs when the business collapsed under new ownership.

This experience led Jessica into the business brokerage world. She purchased a Transworld Business Advisors franchise, which grew into the company’s number one office worldwide, closing more than 1,700 deals over 14 years. From there, Jessica launched Exit Factor in 2018, developing a methodology to help business owners avoid the mistakes she and her grandfather made.

Why Exit Planning Matters

Jessica emphasizes that every business owner will eventually exit—whether by selling, succession, or closing the doors. The key difference lies in whether the exit is planned. Proper preparation can take 3–7 years, allowing time to shore up finances, resolve operational weaknesses, and maximize valuation.

One of her favorite client stories involves a concrete coating company. Initially, the owners didn’t see growth opportunities until Jessica identified recurring revenue potential in annual maintenance services they had been referring out. By bringing this service in-house, they not only created predictable income but also dramatically increased the business’s value.

Keys to Building Value

Jessica outlined several strategies for entrepreneurs preparing to exit:

• Focus on profit, not just revenue. Growth should be measured in profitability (EBITDA), not just sales.
• Look for recurring revenue. Predictable income streams—whether subscriptions, contracts, or maintenance—significantly raise valuations.
• Strengthen leadership and culture. Buyers pay more for businesses that are not overly dependent on the owner and have a strong management team in place.
• Plan early. Address weaknesses years before selling so that financial performance and valuation can improve steadily.
• Build the right team. Advisors, tax professionals, and legal experts ensure the exit process is smooth and profitable.

Exit Factor Today and Tomorrow

In late 2023, Jessica franchised Exit Factor under the United Franchise Group (UFG) umbrella. In just 19 months, the brand has expanded to 38 offices across 22 states, with more territories sold and multi-unit owners joining the network. The mission is bold: to reduce the staggering statistic that 87% of U.S. businesses never successfully exit. Jessica’s vision is to have Exit Factor offices in every major U.S. market and eventually expand internationally.

Her latest book, The Exit Factor, releases September 30 and outlines the very methodology she uses with clients—helping entrepreneurs prepare their businesses for a successful transition, whether in three years or decades from now.

A Life Beyond the Business

One of Jessica’s most powerful insights is that business owners must envision their life after the sale. Without a clear vision for the future, many unconsciously sabotage their exit out of fear or loss of identity. “If you’re not excited about the day after, it’s going to be really hard to execute your exit strategy,” she explained.

Jessica encourages entrepreneurs to “test drive” their future lives—whether that means writing, traveling, or even becoming a pickleball champion—so they’re ready to embrace what comes next.

Conclusion

Jessica Fialkovich’s journey is a reminder that success isn’t just about building a profitable business—it’s about creating one that can thrive without you. Through Exit Factor, she’s equipping entrepreneurs with the tools, strategies, and mindset to exit gracefully, profitably, and on their own terms.