Author: Jamie Patterson

In the newest episode of The Franchise Woman podcast, we explore more than just business. We dive into decades of grit, growth, and the deep bonds formed between two remarkable women—Bonnie Lanyon of Rancho Cucamonga, California, and Carol Ann Hunter of Louisville, Kentucky.

Both franchisees with PuroClean, Bonnie and Carol Ann share their stories of building businesses with their husbands, raising families in the midst of economic uncertainty, and forming a friendship that grew stronger with each franchise convention, zipline ride, and shared experience.

This episode offers a window into the real-life challenges and rewards of running a family business, sustaining a marriage through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and finding connection and support through the franchise community.

From Recession to Restoration

Bonnie’s journey began in the early 1990s when she and her late husband Tom received multiple invitations from PuroClean to consider franchising. At the time, their construction business was suffering under the weight of a recession. After carefully considering their options and pulling together the funds, they took a leap of faith and opened their PuroClean franchise in Victorville, California.

Carol Ann’s story followed a similar path. Her husband Rob, a homebuilder, was also approached by PuroClean as the company looked to expand its restoration services through franchise partnerships. Though initially skeptical—especially after receiving a poor review of the contract from a coworker—Carol Ann trusted her husband’s judgment and supported his decision to move forward. It turned out to be the best business decision they ever made.

Building a Business and a Marriage

One of the most powerful themes in this episode is the honest, behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to build a business with your spouse. Both women are candid about the difficulties that came with navigating roles at work while maintaining a strong relationship at home.

Carol Ann recalls the early days of working with Rob and how their very different personalities initially clashed in the office. Over time, they learned to give each other space, establish boundaries, and play to their strengths. Rob, a classic Type A personality, drove the business forward while Carol Ann managed the finances and operations with calm efficiency.

Bonnie describes her husband Tom as the risk-taker, the visionary who pulled her along into business ownership. Though she originally thought she’d be a stay-at-home mom, Bonnie became an essential partner in the franchise—handling marketing, administration, and eventually helping transition the business to her children after Tom’s passing.

A Friendship Formed Through Franchising

While their franchise journeys started independently, Bonnie and Carol Ann’s paths eventually crossed at PuroClean conventions. What began as polite interactions grew into a deep and lasting friendship. From getting pedicures together to riding donkeys and ziplining on vacation, their bond was forged not just through business, but through laughter, shared values, and mutual encouragement.

They come from different worlds—Bonnie from California suburbia, Carol Ann from Kentucky farmland—but together, they represent the power of connection in franchising. Their friendship reminds us that franchising is not just about systems and support—it’s about people.

Passing the Torch

Now in a new season of life, Bonnie has successfully passed the reins of her business to her children, who are carrying the legacy forward with vision and passion. Watching them grow into leadership roles has been one of the most rewarding parts of her journey.

Carol Ann and her husband are also transitioning their business to their son, while continuing to stay active in both the franchise and on their family farm.

Both women agree that this generational transition is a privilege, not just a business move. It is a continuation of something they and their husbands built with care, commitment, and sacrifice.

Lessons in Trust, Teamwork, and Tenacity

Bonnie and Carol Ann leave listeners with a wealth of wisdom. They talk about the importance of trusting your spouse, being willing to step into new roles, and supporting one another’s dreams—even when they come with risk.

Their advice for other women stepping into business with their spouse is simple: see yourselves as a team. Be different, but unified. Support each other’s strengths, and be willing to grow—individually and together.

Why This Episode Matters

In franchising, stories like Bonnie’s and Carol Ann’s often go untold. We talk a lot about systems, scalability, and profitability. But what about the relationships that make those systems work? What about the love, the struggle, the laughter, and the lifelong friendships?

This episode of The Franchise Woman is a celebration of the human side of franchising. It reminds us that behind every successful franchise is a story of resilience, sacrifice, and real connection.

Whether you’re a current franchise owner, considering entering the world of franchising, or simply love stories of strong women navigating life with purpose and partnership, this episode will leave you inspired.

When you think about the moving industry, you might not expect to find a story that blends emotional intelligence, entrepreneurial grit, and a powerful mission of self-worth. But that’s exactly what Brooke Wilson brings to the table—and it’s why her episode on The Franchise Woman podcast is a must-listen.

From Summer Job to $20M Business Empire

Brooke Wilson didn’t set out to be a franchise powerhouse. Her journey began like many young adults—taking a summer job right out of college. She joined a local Two Men and a Truck franchise as a customer service representative, just looking to help out during the busy season. But it didn’t take long for Brooke to realize she had a knack for the business—and a vision for something bigger.

At just 23 years old, she and her husband made a bold move—literally and figuratively—by launching their own Two Men and a Truck franchise in Durham, North Carolina. With little more than determination and trust in each other, they dove into the unknown.

Fast-forward two decades, and Brooke now leads six thriving franchise locations in North Carolina and Georgia, employing nearly 300 people and generating close to $20 million in revenue annually. In 2024, she expanded her offerings by launching Two Men and a Junk Truck—a natural evolution designed to meet customer needs and align with a growing trend toward minimalism and responsible disposal.

“Every Person Has Value”

Brooke’s business success is impressive, but what truly sets her apart is her mission-driven leadership philosophy.

“I believe that all humans have a value to contribute—whether it’s professionally, personally, to society, or to the world in general,” she shares.

Brooke’s passion lies in helping people recognize their individual worth. Whether it’s a frontline employee, a customer, or a family member, she believes everyone brings something unique to the table. This belief is reflected in how she leads her teams—by honoring different strengths, respecting personal goals, and adapting her leadership style to meet individuals where they are.

From public recognition to quiet validation, Brooke ensures her employees are seen, heard, and appreciated. She understands that not everyone wants to climb the corporate ladder—and that’s okay. Whether someone is aiming for ownership or happy in a steady 9-to-5, Brooke sees and celebrates their contribution.

Balancing Love and Business

One of the most moving parts of Brooke’s story is the honesty with which she shares the challenges of starting a business while also building a marriage. The first year and a half? “We didn’t make it,” she admits candidly—referring not to the business, which boomed, but to their relationship.

Consumed by the demands of running a startup, their personal connection took a backseat. But instead of letting it fall apart, they got real. With the help of therapy, self-reflection, and a commitment to define their roles and trust each other’s strengths, Brooke and her husband rebuilt both their marriage and business stronger than ever.

“We had to decide if we were going to do both—marriage and business—and do them both well.”

Their story is a powerful example of perseverance, communication, and knowing when to ask for help.

The Ripple Effect of Self-Reflection

Throughout the episode, one theme rises to the surface again and again: the ripple effect of self-awareness.

Brooke emphasizes the importance of pausing to ask yourself, “What was the impact of my actions? Did I create the outcome I intended?” Her perspective is clear—accountability isn’t about blame. It’s about growth, learning, and creating a better outcome next time.

This kind of emotional intelligence, modeled by Brooke and nurtured in her team, leads to stronger relationships, a healthier workplace culture, and—ultimately—greater success.

Fun Fact: Yes, They’ve Moved a Taxidermy Bear

Of course, no episode would be complete without a little fun. When asked about the wildest item she’s ever moved, Brooke laughed and shared the story of a full-size taxidermy bear being carefully transported. It’s a humorous reminder that in the moving business, you never quite know what to expect—but it’s all part of the journey.

What’s Next for Brooke?

Brooke’s future is wide open, and she’s embracing every opportunity with creativity and curiosity. Whether she’s growing her business, painting pet portraits for charity, or mentoring future leaders, one thing is clear: her ripple effect is only beginning.

#FranchiseWoman #BrookeWilson #WomenInBusiness #Leadership #Franchising #TwoMenAndATruck #Podcast #Entrepreneurship #SelfWorth #MissionDrivenLeadership

What happens when the fast pace of corporate life collides with personal anxiety, burnout, and the craving for purpose?

If you’re JoJo Struebing, you leave the tech industry behind and build a wellness franchise that offers others what you desperately needed: healing, clarity, and calm.

JoJo, the founder of Altered States Wellness, shared her compelling story on The Franchise Woman Podcast—a journey that began with tech sales and now lives in float tanks, cold plunges, infrared saunas, and red light therapy rooms.

From Corporate Success to Personal Breakdown

JoJo began her career at tech giants like Microsoft and HP. Though she was outwardly successful, she felt a deep internal misalignment. The stress, the pressure to perform, and the lack of passion led her to alcohol as a coping mechanism.

Eventually, JoJo chose sobriety—and in doing so, embarked on a journey of self-awareness and healing. That path included wellness practices that would become the foundation of her future business.

Discovering the Power of Float Therapy

During her recovery, JoJo explored a variety of therapies to calm her mind and body. One stood out: float therapy.

As she described in the podcast, floating gave her space to quiet her thoughts, process emotion, and reconnect with herself. It became not just a wellness tool—but a lifeline.

Building a Business from Healing

Her first step into entrepreneurship was opening a CBD franchise. That experience taught her about franchising—and what she wanted to do differently.

Eventually, she and her husband rebranded, launching Altered States Wellness. The concept blends science-backed modalities like:

• Float therapy
• Infrared sauna
• Red light therapy
• Cold plunging

Each service is designed to help clients regulate their nervous systems, reduce inflammation, boost mood, and access deeper states of calm.

A Franchise Rooted in Purpose

JoJo’s mission goes beyond offering trendy wellness services. She’s building a business that helps others do more, feel more, and become more.

Her motto: “On the other side of fear is freedom.” It’s a lesson she learned from her father—and one she lives every day.

She now helps others find that same freedom, whether it’s managing anxiety without pharmaceuticals or stepping into entrepreneurship with intention.

Trends in Wellness: Community and Biohacking

JoJo is also seeing rising demand in wellness—especially in group experiences and longevity-focused tools. Cold plunge and sauna sessions are on the rise, red light therapy is trending, and people are craving community-based wellness events.

Altered States Wellness is meeting that demand, offering immersive wellness experiences that heal both body and mind—while fostering human connection.

Final Thoughts

JoJo Struebing’s story is a reminder that self-awareness, vulnerability, and purpose are powerful tools for transformation. What began as a personal healing journey is now a national franchise movement.

With Altered States Wellness, JoJo is creating a space where others can find their calm, unlock their potential, and maybe even discover their own superpowers.

Sometimes, leaving a stable career isn’t just a leap of faith—it’s a carefully calculated next step. That’s exactly what Sarah Ross did after 10 years in corporate accounting, when she chose to step away from spreadsheets and into entrepreneurship through a Fresh Coat Painters franchise in Austin, Texas.

On a recent episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Sarah shared how a blend of practical thinking, gentle strength, and family support helped her build a thriving painting business and a peaceful life.

Why She Chose Franchising

Sarah knew herself well: she was strong in operations and finance, but marketing and sales weren’t her comfort zone. That’s what drew her to franchising.

“I liked the idea of owning a business, but I wasn’t ready to build from scratch,” she said. “Franchising let me step into entrepreneurship with structure and support.”

Fresh Coat was the perfect fit—budget-friendly, available in her desired Austin territory, and rooted in an industry that was here to stay.

The Leap of Faith (With Backup)

Despite being risk-averse, Sarah made the jump—with a backup plan in hand and the support of her spouse, who continued working in nursing during the transition.

“I told her, if it doesn’t work, I’ll go back to accounting,” Sarah shared. “We were young enough to recover, and that gave me the confidence to try.”

From Franchisee to Family Business

Over time, Sarah brought her twin brother into the company—a perfect complement to her introverted, detail-oriented style.

“He’s the outgoing one,” she laughed. “I’m behind the scenes, and he’s out meeting clients. It works beautifully.”

Together, they’ve grown the business, scaled across multiple territories, and created a family-first culture that puts relationships and integrity at the center.

Her Business Motto: Givers Gain

Sarah credits much of her business growth to her participation in BNI (Business Network International). The group’s motto—Givers Gain—became her personal philosophy.

“We give back through our Fresh Coat Cares program,” she said. “We paint for people in need and support other small businesses. The more we give, the more our community supports us in return.”

Advice for New Franchisees

Sarah’s advice? Trust the system and do what the franchisor tells you to do.

“They’re never going to ask you to do something they haven’t proven works,” she said. “It took me a few years to fully follow the model—and when I did, we scaled fast.”

Other tips include:

• Know your strengths, but be coachable
• Push through your comfort zone (especially if you’re an introvert)
• Have the drive—because franchising still takes work
• And when it gets tough? “Take a deep breath.”

What’s Next?

Though she’s not looking to take over all of Austin, Sarah is focused on scaling sustainably—and eventually selling her business for retirement. With a high-growth territory, great local partnerships, and strong brand recognition, that plan is well on track.

Final Thoughts

Sarah Ross is proof that introverts make incredible leaders. That peace, trust, and hard work are a winning formula. And that business done with purpose can truly transform lives—starting with your own.

This Father’s Day, The Franchise Woman podcast celebrates the power of legacy, love, and entrepreneurship with a story that embodies them all.

In 2012, Daniel Golik, then a senior at the University of Florida, had a wild idea: nitrogen ice cream made fresh to order. Armed with a concept and a PowerPoint, he pitched it Shark Tank-style to his parents, Donna and George. What followed was a decision that changed their lives—and eventually shaped a $7M franchise brand known as Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream.

But just before their first store opened, tragedy struck—the family lost their husband and father. In that moment of grief, Donna stepped into a leadership role, turning her heartbreak into action and supporting Daniel in fulfilling a dream sparked by his dad’s unwavering belief.

A Business Built on Family Values
Chill-N is more than a unique ice cream concept—it’s a family affair from the inside out. From their late father’s entrepreneurial legacy to the branding contributions of Daniel’s sisters, the Goliks have built a culture centered on collaboration, joy, and meaningful connections.

Serving Happiness One Cup at a Time
That’s not just a tagline—it’s a mission. Every cup of Chill-N ice cream is made to order with raw, real ingredients and a whole lot of fun. Kids (and adults!) are mesmerized by the foggy swirl of liquid nitrogen, and the science-lab-inspired shop setup invites creativity and experimentation.

From Grief to Growth
Today, the company has 17 locations under four brands, nearly 200 employees, and a growing franchise network—with most franchisees starting out as loyal customers. Donna continues to serve as Chief Brand Officer, building community connections and supporting growth. Daniel leads operations and innovation, always looking to the future—including tech-forward enhancements and nationwide delivery.

Their advice for other family entrepreneurs?

• Don’t be afraid to fail.
• Delegate and trust others.
• Stay in your lane, but support one another.
• And most of all, keep your mission at the heart of what you do.

This Father’s Day, we honor the dads who believe in their kids, the families who build something meaningful together, and the businesses that serve happiness one cup at a time.

What if you could lower teen accident rates by 60% with a driving school experience that’s fun, immersive, and unlike anything else on the road?

That’s exactly what Jen Wherrell and Zach Beutler are doing with Jungle Driving—a fast-growing franchise concept that’s part learning experience, part social initiative, and 100% purpose-driven.

In their recent interview on The Franchise Woman Podcast, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa dive deep into the “why” and “how” behind this brand’s mission to save lives and transform driver education.

From Vision to Impact

For Zach Beutler, Jungle Driving is more than a smart business—it’s personal. Fueled by a clear vision, a strong team, and his ranch-raised grit, Zach has consulted on over 20 franchise concepts and awarded more than 3,000 territories. But this one hit differently.

“I love concepts that blend experience with purpose,” he shared. “There’s no major player in this space—and our results are changing lives.”

Jen Wherrell, who balances a franchise career with parenting three teens, is equally passionate. Her life changed after reading the book Wild and losing her mother. Since then, she’s vowed to trust her instincts and never waste time on the sidelines.

“Time is short,” she said. “So why not build something meaningful—something that matters?”

A Learning Experience Teens Want

The Jungle Driving experience is far from traditional. Think Rainforest Café meets DMV prep. With immersive classrooms designed to activate all five senses, plus a gamified curriculum and social elements like team contests, Jungle is turning driver’s ed into something students look forward to.

“We’re creating something teens talk about,” Jen said. “A place where they laugh, compete, and remember what they learn.”

The Results Speak for Themselves

📊 According to a study by the University of Michigan, 80% of newly licensed teens are in an accident within 3 years. But for Jungle Driving students?

✅ Just 20% experience accidents in that time frame.

That’s an incredible drop in risk—proof that immersive education works.

Recession-Proof & Ripe for Scale

With 37 states requiring driver’s education, and the largest competitors often booked 6+ months out, demand is exploding. Jungle Driving offers:

• Low startup costs
• High margins
• Strong brand storytelling
• Proven results
• A deeply needed service in every community

“This is the franchise unicorn everyone’s searching for,” Zach said.

What’s Next for Jungle Driving?

The brand plans to expand across the U.S., reaching teens and parents who want a safer, smarter, and more engaging approach to driver education. With future gamification tools and team-based incentives already in development, Jungle Driving is on the fast track to becoming a household name.

Final Thoughts

At its core, Jungle Driving isn’t just about teaching road rules—it’s about reshaping mindsets. It’s about empowering teens, building confidence, and preventing tragedy.

If you’re looking for a franchise that blends purpose, passion, and powerful results, Jungle Driving might be your perfect next move.

In a franchise industry that’s often driven by metrics and margins, Michelle Holliman is a standout voice of compassion, communication, and consistency.

As the Vice President of Franchise Development for Pigtails & Crewcuts, Michelle joined The Franchise Woman Podcast to share not just her business expertise—but her deeper philosophy on life, leadership, and kindness.

From Franchise Development to Life Coaching

Michelle’s franchise journey began in 1997, with experience across brands like HoneyBaked Ham, Planet Smoothie, and now, Pigtails & Crewcuts. But what truly defines her approach isn’t her resume—it’s her purpose.

“My theme in life is kindness,” she says. “And I try to model that everywhere—in business, with my kids, and with my team.”

Kindness as a Culture Builder

Working with children, franchisees, and fellow leaders, Michelle emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in business.

She leads her team—and teaches franchisees—through what she calls the 3 C’s:

• Communication – Transparent and honest dialogue is key. “People need to know what they’re getting into.”
• Cooperation – Franchising is a partnership, and Michelle ensures her team collaborates closely with every new candidate.
• Consideration – “You have to meet people where they are,” she explains. Whether it’s a franchisee’s financial goals or emotional readiness, Michelle leads with empathy.

Why Coachability Matters More Than Experience

Michelle believes franchise success isn’t reserved for those with business degrees or executive titles—it’s about being coachable.

“People come from all walks of life—corporate jobs, teaching, medicine. What matters most is your willingness to learn and grow with us.”

This perspective has helped Michelle support a diverse array of franchisees—many of whom have never worked in retail or with children before.

Debunking Franchise Myths

Michelle doesn’t shy away from hard conversations. She knows franchising has had its share of myths and reputational baggage.

That’s why she approaches every prospect with transparency. “Franchising isn’t a 9-to-5 job. It’s hard work. But it’s also rewarding—and you’re never doing it alone. That’s what makes this model so powerful.”

What’s Next for Pigtails & Crewcuts

Celebrating 20 years in business, Michelle is just getting started. She’s focused on innovation, franchisee support, and expanding with purpose.

“We’ve built a strong foundation. Now it’s about making the brand even better—through community involvement, tech upgrades, and staying true to our core values.”

That includes maintaining a sense of fun. “We’re a kid-focused brand,” she laughs. “It should be joyful.”

Final Thoughts: Leadership with a Smile

Michelle’s interview was more than a look inside a franchise system—it was a reminder that kindness isn’t weakness. It’s leadership. It’s strength. And it just might be the secret ingredient behind long-term success.

In a world where disruption is inevitable and leadership styles vary widely, Stefan Figley offers a refreshing blend of resilience, structure, and empathy. As the President of 1-800-Packouts—a leading franchise brand in contents and personal property restoration—Stefan joined Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa on the Franchise Woman Podcast for an insightful conversation that bridged the worlds of competitive sports, franchising, and emotional intelligence.

This episode wasn’t just a look behind the curtain of a successful franchise—it was a masterclass in leadership during chaos and the art of non-complacency.

From Tennis Courts to Boardrooms: A Journey Fueled by Challenge

Stefan’s journey started far from the world of restoration services. Born in Germany and raised with an appreciation for discipline and order, he eventually found himself excelling as a competitive tennis player. He played at the collegiate level, then professionally, before transitioning into the world of business and marketing.

It’s no surprise that his early training on the court carried over into his professional life. “If you’re preparing for a match an hour before the match, you’re already unprepared,” he explained. “It’s the same in business. If you walk into Monday morning without a plan, you’re already behind.”

That meticulous preparation and proactive mindset laid the foundation for Stefan’s future success in the marketing world and, ultimately, in franchising—where he’s spent the last two decades growing brands and empowering franchisees.

Structure Meets Flexibility

Stefan’s leadership style is grounded in what he calls structured flexibility. That might sound contradictory, but in reality, it’s what sets great leaders apart—being anchored by a process but nimble enough to adapt when the unexpected happens. In franchising, as in sports, things rarely go exactly as planned.

This is especially true at 1-800-Packouts, where franchise owners respond to property disasters—fires, floods, and other traumatic events. Having a playbook is essential, but so is emotional intelligence.

“You have to solve the problem in front of you, not everything at once,” Stefan said. “That’s what allows you to move forward and build momentum.”

Empathy: The Underrated Business Skill

One of the most powerful themes in the episode was empathy—something Stefan believes is non-negotiable for any franchisee in the restoration industry.

Unlike many franchise concepts, 1-800-Packouts isn’t about selling a product or a feel-good service. It’s about showing up after someone’s worst day and helping them rebuild. This requires compassion, patience, and emotional resilience.

“If a franchisee doesn’t have empathy, it’s going to be a problem,” Stefan said. “These homeowners have just experienced loss. They’re disoriented. Our job is not just to remove, clean, and store their belongings—it’s to walk them through a moment of crisis.”

His team even goes as far as helping families access sentimental holiday items in storage—bringing a sense of normalcy during difficult times.

The Culture of Non-Complacency

Throughout the conversation, Stefan stressed one core value again and again: non-complacency. Whether talking about sports, leadership, or franchisee success, he made it clear that coasting isn’t an option—not if you want to grow.

To foster that culture within his system, 1-800-Packouts now posts monthly revenue numbers for all franchisees. Public visibility creates accountability, which in turn breeds conversations and collaboration.

“We’re not doing it to shame anyone,” Stefan explained. “We’re doing it because truth brings clarity. Once you see where you really stand, you can decide what to do about it.”

This mindset encourages owners to compare, improve, and reach out to peers—not just rely on corporate support. It also reveals one of Stefan’s greatest strengths: developing leadership capacity within others.

Failure Isn’t the End—It’s an Opportunity

Interestingly, Stefan isn’t afraid of failure. In fact, he welcomes it—on a small scale.

He shared that sometimes, when something goes slightly wrong in a service interaction, it gives the company a chance to over-deliver in the recovery. That often creates more loyal customers than if everything had gone perfectly.

This is a powerful shift in perspective: mistakes are not liabilities, they’re moments to build trust.

A Mission Rooted in Service

What stood out most in this conversation was Stefan’s balance of high performance and deep humanity. Yes, he values grit, preparation, and high standards. But none of that overshadows the fundamental truth at the core of his brand: it’s all about people.

“We’re here to get folks back on their feet, back into their homes, and back into their lives,” Stefan said. “And that means meeting them where they are.”

That level of purpose-driven leadership is what transforms a franchise system from good to great.

Final Thoughts

From international marketing to hands-on franchise leadership, Stefan Figley’s journey is one of vision, vulnerability, and veracity. Whether you’re a current franchise owner, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone passionate about servant leadership, this episode is a must-listen.

As Rebecca noted, “Complacency is a killer of dreams.” And Stefan Figley is living proof that challenge—not comfort—is where greatness is built.

In the latest episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa welcome Dawn Kane, dynamic CEO and co-founder of Hot Dish Advertising, to explore three decades of marketing transformation—and the wisdom she’s gained along the way.

Established in 1999, Hot Dish Advertising began specializing in franchise industry support in 2001. For over two decades, Dawn has been instrumental in shaping the agency’s reputation as a trusted, strategic partner for franchisors across the nation.

In this candid conversation, Dawn shares the highs and lows of her journey, from working on the first direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical ads in Manhattan to being honored with the IFA’s 2024 Bonny LeVine Award.

From Mechanical Boards to Marketing AI: A Career Defined by Change

Dawn’s career began in 1986 at a pharmaceutical advertising agency in Manhattan. At the time, she was manually creating mechanical boards and passing job jackets around the office. Yet even in that analog era, she was helping to break new ground—working on the first-ever direct-to-consumer TV commercial for a prescription drug.

That early experience shaped her meticulous approach to marketing and her deep respect for compliance and detail—traits that translated seamlessly to the world of franchising.

Today, Dawn leads a cutting-edge agency that evolves as fast as the industry itself. From navigating Google and Meta’s ever-changing algorithms to implementing AI tools, Dawn continues to lead with curiosity, creativity, and courage.

Building an Agency with Purpose—and Responsibility

When it came time to name their company, Dawn and her team debated whether “Hot Dish Marketing” might better reflect their work. But in the end, they kept “Advertising”—and “Agency”—intact, knowing those words represented something deeper.

“We’re more than a service provider—we’re an advocate, a protector, a strategic partner,” Dawn explains. “Agency implies responsibility. We take that seriously.”

Today, Hot Dish Advertising is a full-service agency that supports franchise brands on three fronts:

• Consumer marketing
• Franchise development
• B2E (Business to Employee) marketing

Their integrated, “connected brand strategy” ensures that no matter the audience, every message supports long-term brand growth.

Why Franchisors Must Prioritize Due Diligence

One of the core messages Dawn brings to franchisors—especially emerging ones—is the importance of due diligence when selecting vendors and partners.

“There are so many supplier companies in franchising—some who don’t understand the nuances,” Dawn warns. “Unfortunately, we’ve seen brands waste time and money working with partners who aren’t the right fit.”

She encourages franchisors to ask questions, check references (including the hard ones), and ensure cultural alignment. “Just because someone is talented doesn’t mean they’re the right partner for you,” she says.

It’s this focus on honesty, transparency, and mutual respect that has earned Hot Dish Advertising a client roster filled with long-standing partnerships.

What is B2E—and Why Should Franchisors Care?

One of the most compelling insights from this episode is Hot Dish’s new focus on B2E (Business to Employee) marketing. With staffing challenges persisting across the industry, especially in QSR and home services, B2E marketing helps franchisees attract employees who fit the brand and culture.

“Your employee is the first point of contact with your brand,” Dawn says. “If they’re excited, aligned, and well-trained, that creates lifelong customers—and future franchisees.”

This fresh strategy not only solves real pain points at the unit level, but strengthens the brand’s overall performance and appeal to prospective franchise owners.

Success Built on Trust: The Tropical Smoothie Cafe Story

Among Hot Dish’s many success stories, one stands out: their 14+ year partnership with Tropical Smoothie Cafe.

Starting with just 200 locations, the brand now nears 1,500. Along the way, Hot Dish helped them transition from a single-unit focus to attracting sophisticated multi-unit operators. Even through leadership changes and private equity transitions, the relationship has thrived—proving the power of trust, communication, and adaptability.

“They were always clear about their goals and open to feedback. That allowed us to pivot when needed and keep delivering results,” Dawn says.

Leadership that Goes Beyond Business

Dawn Kane is not only a leader in marketing—she’s a driving force in the franchise community.

She’s a past chair of the IFA’s Supplier Forum, has served on influential committees including Membership and Marketing, and currently co-chairs both the Twin Cities Women’s Franchise Network and the Franchise Business Network.

In 2024, she received the Bonny LeVine Award, the International Franchise Association’s highest honor for women leaders, and was named one of the “Most Successful Businesswomen to Watch” by Insight Success Magazine.

Outside of franchising, Dawn’s commitment to service continues. She has volunteered with Goodwill of Greater Minnesota, House of Charity, Park Square Theatre, and the Salvation Army, and has held leadership roles on multiple nonprofit boards.

Mentorship, Connection & Community

Dawn’s love of mentorship is evident in her involvement with DECA, Camp Enterprise, and other youth business programs.

“If I can’t help someone directly, I usually know someone who can,” she says. “I love making those connections.”

It’s that same connector spirit that keeps her inbox full, her schedule busy, and her conference walkways full of hugs.

Final Takeaway: Fit, Integrity, and Relationships Win Every Time

Dawn Kane’s story is one of vision, perseverance, and integrity. From her early marketing breakthroughs to her current leadership in the franchise world, she models what it means to be both a trusted advisor and a changemaker.

“Great marketing is only part of it,” she says. “What really builds brands is the people behind them—and the values they share.”

🔗 Connect with Dawn

📧 dcane@hotdishad.com
🌐 www.hotdishad.com
📱 LinkedIn: Dawn Kane

In a world where disruption often gets packaged as buzzwords, Toni Calderone is the real deal. She’s not just innovating—she’s challenging everything about the way restaurants are built, scaled, and run.

The Founder and CEO of PastaNito joined The Franchise Woman Podcast to share her remarkable journey. Her story is full of personal risk, professional resilience, and a purpose that’s as bold as the dishes she serves.

From a Family of Food to Franchise Vision

Toni comes from a line of Sicilian-American entrepreneurs who helped bring pizza to York, Pennsylvania. Her grandparents and parents owned restaurants. Her father taught her about franchising when she was still a child. Her grandmother gave her the charge to lead. And her mother instilled the independence and drive that fuels her even now.

PastaNito wasn’t just a concept—it was a calling. A calling to simplify the chaos of full-service dining. A calling to create something fast, fresh, and scalable. A calling to make the restaurant industry more accessible to the next generation.

Lessons From Loss—and Showing Up Anyway

Toni’s journey wasn’t without struggle. A failed high school business plan cost her a scholarship, but it gave her a lifelong lesson: you have to show up. That same principle carried her through building restaurants, navigating a public divorce, raising three kids, and leading a fine dining establishment—all while creating the foundation for something greater.

She’s unapologetic about the sacrifices and proud of the work. Her story isn’t polished—it’s honest. And it’s powerful.

Creating Systems for the Next Wave of Owners

PastaNito was built with simplicity in mind. No sauté pans. No culinary experience required. Proprietary pastas, systems, and workflows mean franchisees focus on what matters: people.

She’s gamified training. Streamlined prep. Removed complexity. And created a brand that is approachable, efficient, and still full of flavor.

But Toni is clear: absentee ownership isn’t the dream she’s selling. You have to be connected to your community. You have to show up. The systems are there—but it’s passion that drives the engine.

Purpose and Disruption

When asked what fuels her, Toni didn’t hesitate.

“Disruption,” she said. “There’s the way things have always been done. And then there’s what’s possible.”

She’s not looking to build just another food brand. She’s building a platform. A place for entrepreneurs—especially women—to thrive. She created a restaurant incubator that helped launch 28 concepts. She shows up for her team, her city, and her family. Now, she’s showing up for future franchisees ready to make their own mark.

A Business Built Like a Mother

Toni compares her approach to raising her kids. Simple, systematized, and full of care. Backpacks ready. Meals prepped. Systems running. That’s the same mindset she brings to business.

“I don’t need the frills,” she says. “I need consistency and quality. That’s what we’re offering.”

Final Thoughts

Toni Calderone is more than a restaurateur. She’s a pioneer, a disruptor, and a builder of bridges. She’s proving that grit, structure, and purpose can coexist—and that fresh pasta can move at the speed of modern life.

For those seeking a business with passion and scalability, PastaNito offers more than a franchise. It offers a future.

Learn more about franchising: https://www.ownapastanito.com
Connect with Toni: toni@pastanito.com