Unpredicted Entrepreneur

RNCN
  • 5.0 (2)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Your go-to resource for education and insights on franchising and entrepreneurship. Join us as we share valuable advice and interview franchisees, franchisors, investors, and funding partners to uncover insider knowledge that can help YOU thrive as a franchisee. Whether you're exploring business ownership or looking to grow your franchise portfolio, you'll gain actionable tips and expert perspectives. We're honored to be chosen as one of the Top 20 Franchise podcasts. https://podcast.feedspot.com/franchise_podcasts/

  1. FEB 24

    Using Transferable Skills to Build a Business That Matters

    Welcome to Episode 112 of Unpredicted Entrepreneur! If you're looking to be inspired by real stories of business ownership and franchising, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Hosts Sara Waskow and Roxanne Rapske welcome Stephanie Valadez, Owner and Senior Care Advisor of Assisted Living Locators in Flower Mound and Denton County. Stephanie shares her journey from an HR professional with a passion for purpose to becoming a mission-driven franchise owner in senior care. She opens up about the challenges of transitioning out of corporate life, the emotional and financial decisions behind entrepreneurship, and how she navigated the franchise due diligence process. Tune in to hear: What it really takes to build a business where compassion matters as much as competence How franchising offers support, community, and the opportunity for real impact Stephanie's insights on handling self-doubt, learning new skills, and overcoming mistakes as a first-time entrepreneur Whether you're interested in franchising, business ownership, or making a difference, this episode has practical advice and inspiration for anyone exploring a new path. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to the ‪@yourlocalfranchiseexperts‬ YouTube channel for more real stories and expert advice on franchising, business ownership, and entrepreneurship! Interested in connecting or learning more about franchising? Connect with Sara   / sarawaskow  Connect with Roxanne   / roxannerapske  Would you like to learn more about our FREE Franchising Resources? Use this link to receive all of the information: https://linktr.ee/Frannetdfw Discover more about our franchise consulting at https://www.frannet.com/

    26 min

  2. FEB 10

    Culture Over Credentials: The True North Restoration Story

    Ready to learn what truly sets successful franchises apart? In episode 111 of Unpredicted Entrepreneur, hosts Roxanne Rapske and Sara Waskow sit down with brothers Justin Donat and Raymond Donat, the founders of True North Restoration, to discuss the real keys to thriving in business ownership and franchising. Discover why building a business on strong values and company culture is more important than flashy resumes or industry experience. From their beginnings in carpet cleaning to growing a successful restoration franchise, Justin Donat and Raymond Donat reveal how leadership, servant mentality, and collaboration have shaped their journey. You'll hear about: The benefits of franchising for entrepreneurs, including brand recognition, market resilience, and support networks How to transition from an independent business to a franchise model What makes the ideal franchisee and why a servant’s heart is crucial in any franchise business The challenges and rewards of business ownership versus remaining an employee Whether you're considering buying a franchise, starting your own business, or just want expert franchising tips, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration to help you on your entrepreneurial journey.

    26 min

  3. JAN 27

    From Foster Care to Founder: Building a Business That Gives Back

    In this episode of Unpredicted Entrepreneur, Mike Bahun, founder of ‪Fundraising Universityshares his journey and how he's changing school fundraising. Discover innovative fundraising strategies and practical fundraising tips to help schools with raising money more effectively. This video emphasizes creating a more meaningful approach to school fundraiser efforts. You’ll hear about: How Mike Bahun went from foster care and inner-city challenges to finding purpose through sports and coaching The innovative way Fundraising University is changing school fundraising, no more door-to-door sales or candy bars! The transition from running an independent business to creating a fast-growing franchise, and what it took to scale nationwide What makes a great Fundraising University owner, with insights on mindset, overcoming common misconceptions, and finding your “why” Why modern school fundraising is essential, even in affluent districts and how Mike's mission helps close critical funding gaps for students If you’re curious about entrepreneurship, franchising, or just want to do work that matters, you don't want to miss this episode.

    26 min

  4. JAN 14

    The Franchise Advantage No One Puts in the FDD

    Welcome to Episode 109 of Unpredicted Entrepreneur. Today's episode is a masterclass in entrepreneurial reinvention! Join hosts Sara Waskow and Roxanne Rapske as they welcome Mike Pearce, founder and Chief Development Officer of Renew Medic, to explore how decades of franchise experience, and a "retirement" that didn't stick, sparked an industry-changing venture.  Mike grew up in franchising, inspired by watching his dad buy his first Pizza Hut in 1967. After holding leadership roles at Domino’s, ServiceMaster, and Authority Brands, Mike thought he’d hung up his entrepreneurial hat. But when the chance came to transform how disaster restoration is done, he couldn’t stay away. In this episode, you’ll hear: How Renew Medic took root from the existing Furniture Medic brand and why the old model needed a reboot What makes Renew Medic’s cabinet restoration model so unique (think: fast turnarounds, cost savings, and families staying in their homes instead of moving out during repairs) The importance of insurance company partnerships and what it means for franchisees Who makes the ideal Renew Medic franchise owner, and what success looks like in this business Mike’s expert advice for anyone curious about franchising: what questions to ask, what to watch out for, and how to spot a winning team and culture Whether you’re a franchise veteran, restoration pro, or just love stories of business transformation, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and a few laughs along the way.

    27 min

  5. 12/30/2025

    Fixing What Others Replaced: The Idea That Changed an Industry

    Discover how Dan Frey turned a career setback into the national franchise The Glass Guru! Learn about entrepreneurship, franchising, and innovation in home improvement in this inspiring episode. In Episode 108 of the Unpredicted Entrepreneur podcast, hosts Sara Waskow and Roxanne Rapske sit down with Dan Frey, founder and president of The Glass Guru. Hear Dan's incredible journey from losing his job during his honeymoon to launching a cutting-edge business restoring foggy windows, saving homeowners money and creating a unique franchise opportunity. You'll get insight into: The founding story behind The Glass Guru Taking a garage startup to a booming national brand Valuable tips on franchising and entrepreneurship How innovation and resilience can turn setbacks into opportunity The power of business systems and bringing professional skills to the trades Thinking about buying a franchise or starting your business? Dan Frey offers tips for aspiring owners and shares why The Glass Guru is ideal even for those WITHOUT glass or home improvement backgrounds.

    28 min

  6. 12/17/2025

    Breaking the Golden Handcuffs: Mudar’s Leap Into Ownership

    Ready to break free from the corporate world and redefine success? In Episode 107 of Unpredicted Entrepreneur, hosts Sara Waskow and Roxanne Rapske sit down with Mudar Sapatwalla, CEO and owner of TeamLogic IT of HEB (Hurst Euless Bedford), to explore his remarkable journey from nearly 30 years in Corporate America to passionate business ownership. Facing looming layoffs and a desire for true independence, Mudar Sapatwalla took a courageous leap, leveraging his technical expertise and business roots to build a thriving IT franchise. In this candid conversation, he shares the practical steps he took, including financial planning, choosing the right franchise fit, and shifting his focus from technology to sales and relationship-building. What you’ll learn in this episode: How to plan your escape from “golden handcuffs” The power of a franchise support network and owner collaboration Why finding the right cultural fit matters as much as financial success The challenges (and rewards) of small business IT for SMBs Essential tips for starting your own business—including how to build a runway and choose your clients wisely Whether you’re dreaming of entrepreneurship or looking for tips to grow your business, this episode will inspire you to take that first step, embrace mistakes, and create a business that’s rewarding—personally and professionally.

    27 min

  7. 11/25/2025

    From Stuck to Strong: How Tonya Rebuilt Purpose Through Franchising

    Have you ever looked around and thought, “I can’t do this anymore?” That was the reality for our guest, Tonya Middleton, who faced underemployment, raising four kids, and feeling isolated in a new state. In this episode, Tonya shares her inspiring journey from feeling stuck to reigniting her purpose by buying her dream franchise, More Space Place of DFW. Join hosts Sara Waskow and Roxanne Rapske as they dive into Tonya’s story: navigating six months of red tape, learning CAD, driving a forklift, all while launching her new business in the middle of spring break with four kids at home. This episode isn’t just about starting a business; it’s about starting over, finding yourself, and inspiring your family along the way. Discover the challenges Tonya faced, how she overcame the SBA loan process, and lessons learned about networking, self-promotion, and the power of asking questions. Hear how owning More Space Place has changed her life, brought her family closer, and why she believes there’s no “perfect time” to start a business. If you’re considering entrepreneurship, franchise ownership, or simply looking for an authentic story of perseverance, hope, and transformation, this episode is for you. Want to learn more about franchising or connect with us? Check the links in the description for resources and contact info! Connect with Sara https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarawaskow/  Connect with Roxanne https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxannerapske/  FREE Franchising Resources - https://linktr.ee/Frannetdfw  Discover more about our franchise consulting at https://www.frannet.com/

    27 min

  8. 11/11/2025

    How A Tiny Room Became A Million Dollar Brand

    In Episode 105 of Unpredicted Entrepreneur, we sit down with Brigham Dallas, the owner and CEO of Hello Sugar, for a conversation packed with hustle, innovation, and an incredible story of growth. Discover how Brigham went from selling golf balls at age 7 to running the largest worm distribution business in America, and eventually building one of the fastest-growing beauty brands in the nation. Hear how Hello Sugar started in a humble 10x10 room behind a surgeon’s office and quickly evolved into a nationally recognized franchise with over 200 locations, and counting! Brigham shares the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, what makes his franchise model unique, and why having corporate employees who are also franchisees creates a powerful, collaborative culture. We also dive into the innovative approach Hello Sugar uses for launching new franchisees, the company’s receptionless technology powered by AI, and exciting new streams of revenue on the horizon. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a business owner looking for ideas, or just love a good origin story, this episode is full of actionable tips and inspiration. Thinking of franchising, or want to learn more about Hello Sugar? Watch till the end for Brigham’s advice and ways to connect for opportunities. Interested in learning more? Explore the links in the description to connect with Sara, Roxanne, and their franchising resources. Connect with Sara https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarawaskow/  Connect with Roxanne https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxannerapske/  FREE Franchising Resources - https://linktr.ee/Frannetdfw  Discover more about our franchise consulting at https://www.frannet.com/

    24 min
See All (111)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Your go-to resource for education and insights on franchising and entrepreneurship. Join us as we share valuable advice and interview franchisees, franchisors, investors, and funding partners to uncover insider knowledge that can help YOU thrive as a franchisee. Whether you're exploring business ownership or looking to grow your franchise portfolio, you'll gain actionable tips and expert perspectives. We're honored to be chosen as one of the Top 20 Franchise podcasts. https://podcast.feedspot.com/franchise_podcasts/

Information

  • Creator
    RNCN
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    111
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright RNCN
  • Show Website
    Unpredicted Entrepreneur