In this episode, host Paul Ehlinger sits down with Beth Toenies, Vice President of Franchise Development at BELFOR Franchise Group. Beth shares her journey from a journalism graduate to becoming president of a company at just 26, and now leading growth across 15 powerhouse brands in restoration and home services. From navigating male-dominated industries to embracing AI in franchising, Beth’s story is one of adaptability, emotional intelligence, and people-first leadership.

In this episode, host Paul Ehlinger sits down with Rick Peroe, a franchise veteran with decades of experience in system support, training, and franchise development. Rick shares his journey from a short-term seasonal role to leading franchise expansion at Heart to Home Meals, and reveals the insights that have shaped his approach to franchising.

In this episode, host Paul Ehlinger sits down with Derick Jaros, owner of Customboxes.io and former executive at Home Depot, Yext, and other Fortune 500 companies. Derick shares how his career journey — from corporate strategy and e-commerce leadership to launching his own digital services firm — shaped his philosophy on growth, local marketing, and creating meaningful customer experiences.

In this episode, host Paul Ehlinger sits down with Leah Pinkes, Franchise Marketing Coordinator at Oh Deer, an all-natural deer tick and mosquito control service franchise. Leah shares her journey from intern to full-time marketing lead and dives into the strategies behind building an authentic, community-focused social media presence across multiple franchise locations. From viral content to local SEO, she reveals the hands-on approach to marketing that drives growth while keeping franchisees engaged and empowered.

In this episode, host Paul Ehlinger sits down with Bennett Maxwell, CEO of Franchise KI. Bennett shares his journey from door-to-door sales to scaling one of the fastest-growing cookie brands in America. From selling 450 franchises in less than two years to navigating lawsuits, he reveals the strategies — and lessons learned — behind building and scaling at lightning speed.

In this episode, host Paul Ehlinger sits down with Vanessa Yakobson, CEO and partner of Blo Blow Dry Bar, LashKind, and MYNC. Vanessa shares her journey from nonprofit fundraising to leading one of North America’s largest beauty and wellness franchise systems. From pioneering the blow dry bar category to scaling with customer experience at the core, she reveals how Blo continues to evolve while staying true to its values.