Tag: featured

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

In this heartfelt episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, co-hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Kristi Levig, a rising franchise leader in the Waxing the City system. Kristi’s story is one of transformation, trust, and tenacity—and serves as a powerful reminder of how the right mix of mentorship, mindset, and heart can shape not just businesses, but lives.

Humble Beginnings with Big Dreams

Kristi didn’t start out as a franchisee or even envision herself as a business owner. In fact, after initially following a more “traditional” college path, Kristi made a bold pivot toward her real passion—the beauty industry.

Her journey began as a waxing specialist at Waxing the City in St. Cloud, Minnesota. She quickly rose through the ranks, thanks in part to the mentorship of the studio’s franchisee, who empowered her to step into a management role. Kristi learned every facet of the business hands-on—from client experience to team dynamics and operational leadership.

The Leap to Ownership

When her mentor and original studio owner began considering retirement, she approached Kristi with a bold idea: “You should buy it.”

Kristi was hesitant at first. “I told her no way,” she recalls. “Why would I spend that much money just to pay someone else?” But her mentor’s reply shifted everything: Then spend that same money figuring it out on your own.

That moment opened Kristi’s eyes to the value of franchising—not just in brand recognition, but in the support, systems, and shared knowledge it provided. Soon, she began building a relationship with the Waxing the City corporate team and saw what was possible.

With a leap of faith and growing confidence, she became the new owner of the studio where she had once started her career.

From Managing to Leading

Transitioning from manager to owner wasn’t seamless—especially with a team she had once worked alongside. Kristi had to implement new systems, follow franchise best practices, and make operational shifts that some team members resisted.

The result? A nearly full team turnover.

“That part was really hard,” Kristi says. “But I knew I had to create the culture I believed in. And the people who stayed—or joined later—thrived in that new environment.”

The good news? Kristi found her stride as a leader. Today, her team has remarkable longevity, with many employees staying for five years or more—a rarity in today’s labor market.

Scaling with Care

Kristi didn’t stop with one studio. She soon acquired a second existing location and is now preparing to open her third from scratch—this time with a longtime employee as her co-owner.

Her second location, while familiar, came with a new set of challenges. As someone not there daily, she had to rely on the strength of her manager and the franchise systems to make the transition work. And while there were bumps in the road, Kristi’s optimism and thoughtful approach once again created a thriving team culture.

For her third studio, she’s excited to experience the entire build-out process—everything from site selection to opening day. Even better? She’s sharing ownership with someone she mentored from the front desk all the way to co-ownership.

Franchising as a Guide, Not a Limiter

One of the biggest shifts in Kristi’s mindset came when she realized the power of franchising.

“I used to wonder, why would you work that hard just to pay someone else? But what I’ve learned is, franchising gives you this built-in support system. You’re not alone. You’re not guessing. And when something goes wrong, you have a team behind you.”

She now sees the franchise model as a partnership that offers freedom, not limitations—helping her grow with clarity, confidence, and community.

Leading with Empathy

What truly sets Kristi apart as a franchisee isn’t just her growth—it’s how she grows.

Kristi builds strong relationships with her team. She’s attended employee weddings, met their babies, and formed genuine connections beyond the walls of her studios. She doesn’t just care about job performance—she cares about people.

She leads with empathy, celebrates growth, and creates space for others to thrive. “If someone on my team wants more,” she says, “I want to help them get there—even if it means co-owning a location with me, like we’re doing now.”

Creating Future Leaders

Perhaps the most moving part of Kristi’s journey is how she’s paying it forward.

The employee she’s now partnering with on studio #3 started as a receptionist, then went to school to become a waxing specialist, and eventually told Kristi she dreamed of owning her own studio one day.

Rather than losing her to another opportunity, Kristi extended a hand and offered to build something together.

“It’s really special to see someone catch the passion you have—and want to grow because of what you modeled.”

The Power of Mindset

Despite the ups and downs, Kristi remains unshakably optimistic.

“I think failure is always a possibility,” she says. “But I don’t let fear stop me. If something doesn’t work one way, it’ll work another. I’ve learned to trust the process and trust myself.”

Her advice to future entrepreneurs?

“Go into business if it feels right. Do it with your heart. Love what you’re about to be doing, and try to put all your fears aside. They’ll only hold you back.”

🎧 Listen to the Full Episode

Whether you’re a current franchisee, a curious entrepreneur, or someone seeking encouragement, Kristi’s story will leave you inspired to lead with purpose, collaborate boldly, and embrace growth—even when it’s scary.

In this powerful episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Loana Perez, founder and CEO of TeaCupFuls, a creative boba tea franchise making waves with its bold vision and deeply personal origins.

Loana’s journey is far from conventional. Once a high school dropout and teenage runaway, she faced adversity head-on with resilience and determination. Today, she stands at the helm of a growing franchise brand that centers around connection, creativity, and community. Her story is one of hope, grit, and the belief that no matter where you start, you’re capable of something greater.

From Struggle to CEO

At just 15 years old, Loana was living on her own. By 18, she was a young mother, juggling the demands of parenthood while she and her husband worked tirelessly to support their family. For years, they relied on food stamps and Section 8 housing, holding down multiple jobs in hopes of a better future.

With only $1,200 in savings, the couple launched a commercial cleaning company. It wasn’t an overnight success—it took three years of hard work before the business grew into a seven-figure company. In 2022, they sold it, laying the foundation for a new chapter: the creation of TeaCupFuls.

TeaCupFuls: A Mission in a Cup

What began as a creative hobby soon evolved into a movement. Known for its vibrant, over-the-top drinks, inventive toppings, and teen-friendly atmosphere, TeaCupFuls is more than a boba tea shop—it’s a safe haven.

Loana designed the brand with intention. As a teen, she lacked a place where she felt safe and accepted. Through TeaCupFuls, she set out to create that space for others—especially for youth who might be facing similar challenges.

“I didn’t have anywhere to go as a teenager. So I created a place where my kids—and other kids—could come, hang out, feel safe, and just be themselves,” Loana explains.

From Mother to Franchise Visionary

Today, Loana leads with compassion, authenticity, and a strong sense of purpose. With two corporate locations, a growing number of franchise units, and over 20 more in development, she’s building a brand that’s both profitable and deeply meaningful.

She’s not afraid to mop floors, run staff meetings, or involve her children in the business—even letting them help name menu items. Her leadership style is grounded in humility and a commitment to empowering others.

In this episode, Loana shares insights on:

• The value of asking for help and forming a strong team
• How delegation strengthens franchise operations
• The importance of building a business that creates generational wealth
• Staying focused on the “why” that drives the brand’s purpose

Franchising for Visionaries and Builders

Loana is clear about the kind of franchise partners TeaCupFuls is looking for. It’s not about trading one job for another—it’s about building something meaningful.

TeaCupFuls is a brand for dreamers, legacy builders, and families who want to create something lasting. It’s not about age or experience—it’s about having the heart, vision, and determination to make a difference.

“We’re looking for franchisees who want to leave a legacy, not just make money,” says Loana.

Looking to the Future

Loana envisions a future where her children lead the company, franchisees grow businesses they can pass on to the next generation, and she finally takes a well-earned break—relaxing on a beach, knowing she built something with real impact.

This episode is for anyone who’s ever doubted their worth or wondered if they were capable of more. Loana’s story is a reminder that no matter your past, your future is still unwritten.

In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Rebecca Monet sits down with Carrie Waltman, owner of America’s Swimming Pool Company (ASP) in Knoxville, Tennessee. Carrie is part straight-shooting entrepreneur, part nurturing mama bear, and all heart.

Her journey into franchising wasn’t planned—but it’s been nothing short of remarkable. From raising three children as a single mom to becoming one of the few female owners in the ASP franchise system, Carrie’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, anything is possible.

From Property Manager to Pool Pro

Carrie spent years managing condo communities and juggling emergencies like faulty gates and water leaks. One of her trusted vendors was a local ASP owner—a man who recognized Carrie’s grit, sales instincts, and unshakable integrity. After years of working together, he offered her something life-changing: the opportunity to train under him and eventually take over the business.

And that’s exactly what she did.

Today, Carrie is the proud owner of a thriving pool service company, working alongside her office manager and best friend, Corinne. Together, they’ve scaled the business from $300,000 to $1.4 million in just two years—while staying true to who they are.

“We’ll Figure It Out. We Always Do.”

If Carrie’s life had a motto, it would be this one.

Whether it’s firing an underperforming employee, juggling family needs, or pulling on gloves to clean pools herself, Carrie has a mindset rooted in resilience. Her calm, can-do energy comes through clearly in the episode as she recounts moments where others might have panicked, but she simply said, “We’ll figure it out.”

This attitude isn’t just a business tool—it’s a life philosophy she’s passed on to her kids, her employees, and even her clients.

Leadership with a Mother’s Heart

Carrie describes herself as a “mom” in every sense of the word—and not just to her three children.

She stocks her fridge for local teens, helped a neighbor raise an adopted child, and provides structure and support for her all-male team of pool techs. But don’t mistake her kindness for softness. She’s a leader who expects accountability, high standards, and follow-through.

“A good mama expects you to clean up after yourself. But she’s also the one you call when you’re sick, sad, or stuck.”

Clean Water Matters—In Pools and in Life

Carrie loves her work not just because of the pools, but because of the people.

She takes pride in restoring community pools that might otherwise be shut down by the health department. In one case, she and her team saved an entire neighborhood’s summer by quickly fixing a major structural issue in just two weeks. It’s this kind of impact—solving problems, bringing joy, and serving the community—that drives her.

She also appreciates being part of something bigger. ASP is under the Authority Brands umbrella, which provides marketing support, peer connections, and business coaching. Carrie speaks highly of the resources available, from pool school to field support to collaborative local advertising with other Authority Brands.

Building a Business—and a Legacy

At the heart of it all is legacy. Carrie wants her business to be something she can pass down—either to one of her sons or simply as a foundation of financial stability and family pride.

“I want to leave something behind that makes life better for my kids—and maybe even their kids one day.”

She balances that drive with smart boundaries, like no calls after 5 p.m. and work-from-the-water Fridays in the summer with Corinne. For Carrie, success isn’t just about revenue—it’s about living a life you love while helping others do the same.

How a Passion for Health and Service Turned Into a Thriving Franchise

What if a childhood spent in the Amazon region of Brazil, surrounded by nature, family, and strong values, could shape a business destined for greatness? That’s the story of Marcieli Pastorio, CEO and founder of Maha Juice Bar, a thriving lifestyle brand that’s redefining the juice bar industry.

In this episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa dive deep into Marcieli’s incredible journey, from her Brazilian roots to building a successful franchise in the U.S.

From the Amazon to Entrepreneurship

Marcieli’s story begins in Brazil, where she was raised by parents in the healthcare industry. Her upbringing centered around fresh, natural foods, instilling in her a love for nutrition, wellness, and community—values that later shaped her business philosophy.

Her journey to the U.S. wasn’t straightforward. Between immigration challenges, working multiple jobs, and experiencing setbacks, she never gave up on her dream. Eventually, an unexpected opportunity in the food industry propelled her into entrepreneurship, leading to the birth of Maha Juice Bar.

Faith, Leadership, and the Power of Serving with Love

Marcieli attributes much of her success to her faith. She shares how she has witnessed daily miracles, from overcoming financial challenges to finding the perfect name for her franchise.

💡 Key Lessons from Marcieli’s Journey:
✔ Excellence matters – Every meal should be made with care and precision.
✔ Kindness is key – Serving customers isn’t just about food, it’s about uplifting their day.
✔ Faith drives success – When you trust in God’s plan, doors open in unexpected ways.
✔ Leadership is learned – She evolved from struggling with leadership to creating a team that thrives.

The Future of Maha Juice Bar

Marcieli’s mission is to expand Maha Juice Bar into a movement of health, service, and purpose. With plans to open a flagship location in Coral Springs, her franchise is set to make an even bigger impact.

If you love entrepreneurial success stories, franchising insights, or faith-driven business strategies, this episode is for you!

💬 Have you ever faced a major challenge that led to an unexpected breakthrough? Share your story in the comments!

#Franchising #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #FaithInBusiness #MahaJuiceBar #TheFranchiseWomanPodcast

What happens when passion, purpose, and business ownership come together? You get something truly special—like the Starz Program, founded by Sophia Wastler.

In the latest episode of The Franchise Woman podcast, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Sophia to discuss her journey as an entrepreneur, her mission to enrich children’s lives through dance, sports, cheerleading, and fitness, and how franchising is opening doors for passionate individuals who want to make a difference.

The Vision Behind Starz

Sophia Wastler didn’t just build a business—she built a movement. The Starz Program was designed to help kids grow in confidence, physical health, and teamwork, all while making movement fun. But Sophia also saw another opportunity: helping others build their own businesses through franchising.

By offering business ownership opportunities, Starz is creating a network of passionate entrepreneurs who want to bring high-quality fitness education to children in their communities. It’s a win-win—kids get active, and business owners get to do meaningful work while building successful careers.

From Passion to Recognition

Sophia’s dedication to both children and business owners has not gone unnoticed. Her work has earned her multiple honors, including RVA Awesome’s Founder of the Year. But beyond the awards, her biggest reward is seeing the positive impact Starz has on families and communities nationwide.

Why You Should Tune In

If you’re an entrepreneur, franchisee, or just someone who loves hearing inspiring success stories, this episode is for you! Sophia shares:

✔️ The inspiration behind Starz Program
✔️ How she turned her passion into a thriving business
✔️ The power of franchising in expanding opportunities
✔️ Advice for those looking to make an impact through business ownership

Her story proves that business can be about more than just profits—it can be about purpose.

What are your thoughts on using business as a tool for impact and empowerment? Let us know in the comments!

Learn more: www.StarzProgram.com and www.StarzFranchise.com.

#FranchiseWomanPodcast #SophiaWastler #StarzProgram #Entrepreneurship #Franchising #Leadership #BusinessSuccess #Inspiration