The Franchise Hot Seat Podcast with Dr. John P. Hayes - Director, Titus Center for Franchising

Dr. John P Hayes
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Internationally recognized speaker, personal business coach and Amazon best-selling franchise author Dr. John Hayes offers an honest look at everything involved in researching, evaluating and purchasing a franchise business. On this podcast, Dr. John P Hayes interviews Franchisors, Franchisees, and has solo episodes giving valuable advice in the Franchise Industry. Since 1979, John Hayes has worked in the franchise community as a consultant, franchisee and franchisor. He’s one of an elite group worldwide that has actually owned and operated franchises, including serving as CEO of a major American franchisor company, and advised franchisors and franchisees. He is the author of several franchise-related books and countless articles that have appeared in media worldwide. Dr. Hayes has served for many years as an advisor to franchisors, franchisees and small business owners internationally. His areas of expertise include management development, marketing, customer service, training and strategic planning. He is the author or co-author of 18 non-fiction books including Franchising: The Inside Story, Start Small, Finish Big, You Can’t Teach A Kid To Ride A Bike At A Seminar, and most recently Buy “Hot” Franchises Without Getting Burned. Keywords: franchise tax board , chick fil a franchise , the franchise guy , best franchise to own , franchise business , buying a franchise , franchise opportunities , opening a franchise , owning a franchise

  1. 6D AGO

    How Franchise Law Works - With Martha Flynn

    DESCRIPTION: John Hayes, host of the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, interviews Martha Flynn, the new director of the Titus Center. Flynn shares her journey into franchising, which began unexpectedly at Burger King and evolved into various roles at Dunkin' and Panera. The discussion touches on the scarcity of formal franchising education and how Flynn mastered franchise law and operations. The importance of internships for students is also discussed. The conversation also explores the changing role of women in franchising, the advantages of an academic focus in franchising, and the unique opportunities this provides for students at Palm Beach Atlantic University. Both Flynn and Hayes underscore the vital role of practical internships and hands-on experience in equipping students for successful careers in franchising. - With Martha Flynn. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Intro 00:37 How did Martha start franchising? 01:58 What was learned at Burger King? 06:17 Why move to Dunkin' and Inspire? 08:52 What challenges did Panera present? 09:44 Why transition to academia? 12:20 How does franchising education impact students? 16:47 What opportunities exist for students? 22:07 What is the future of franchising internships? LINKS: WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

    40 min

  2. JAN 26

    What Most Franchisors Get Wrong About Growth - With Keith Gerson

    DESCRIPTION: John Hayes, host of the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, converses with Keith Gerson, a member of the Titus Center Advisory Board and a veteran in the franchising industry. Keith shares his franchising journey, beginning with McDonald's, then owning a Mrs. Fields Cookies franchise, and finally becoming a franchise coach and executive. They delve into the challenges and opportunities in franchise development, the surprising deficiency in franchising education, and the urgent need to advocate for the franchise model. Keith stresses the significance of comprehending franchise disclosure documents, particularly financial representations in item 19, and effective lead generation tactics. The discussion also covers the function of franchise brokers and the growing application of AI in franchising operations, emphasizing its ability to boost decision-making and enhance transparency. The dialogue highlights franchising as a feasible career choice and discusses ways franchisors can more effectively attract both single-unit and multi-unit operators. - With Keith Gerson. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Intro 00:29 How did Keith Gerson start franchising? 04:45 What are common franchising misconceptions? 09:00 How is franchise development changing in 2025? 11:57 Why is Item 19 important? 17:52 How do you attract multi-unit operators? 22:41 What are real franchise failure rates? 24:33 Why are Franchise Disclosure Documents crucial? 34:52 What are effective trade show strategies? 41:39 What are current franchise development challenges? LINKS: WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

    48 min

  3. JAN 19

    Student Perspectives On Franchise Opportunities - With Haley Arruda and Sam Vander Heide

    DESCRIPTION:  John Hayes hosts Haley Arruda and Sam Vander Heide, Palm Beach Atlantic  University students, on the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast, where they discuss their  studies in franchising at the Titus Center for Franchising. They explain their reasons  for choosing PBA and their academic paths, including their discovery of franchising.  Both students emphasize the significant role internships have played in shaping  their career goals, with plans to continue in the franchising field. They discuss the  difficulty of drawing more students to franchising programs and the crucial role of  word-of-mouth in expanding the Titus Center's influence. Additionally, they share  their valuable experiences attending industry conferences and networking with  franchise professionals.  - With Haley Arruda and Sam Vander Heide. TIMESTAMPS (Use ChatGPT on Transcript):  01:00 Who are the students, Haley and Sam?  02:26 How did you first discover franchising?  03:54 What is the main appeal of franchising?  05:00 What career opportunities does franchising offer?  11:04 What were the key internship experiences?  15:09 What are your future career plans?  20:55 How do franchising events and networking help?  28:19 What are the biggest challenges and opportunities?  33:19 What is your final advice and conclusion?  LINKS:  WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise  Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

    35 min

  4. JAN 12

    The Real Reason Graduates Struggle After College - With Dr John P. Hayes

    DESCRIPTION:  In this episode, we dig into the growing question a lot of people are asking: is a  traditional college degree still worth it? The conversation explores the gap between  classroom theory and the real-world skills employers actually need, and why more  students are looking for alternative paths as tuition rises and frustration grows.  Dr. John P. Hayes shares how the Titus Center for Franchising at Palm Beach Atlantic  University is tackling this problem head-on. Founded through a gift from Ray Titus,  the program blends strong academics with hands-on internships to prepare  students for real careers in franchising. We also hear the success story of graduate  Victoria Magaldi, showing what’s possible when education is tied to purpose and  opportunity.  This episode is all about what meaningful education should look like — and how it  can truly open doors.  -With Dr John P. Hayes TIMESTAMPS:  00:00 Intro  01:10 What is the disconnect between education and employment?  02:49 How does franchising connect to higher education?  04:00 What led to the Titus Center's creation?  06:24 What is a key success story?  08:13 What makes the Titus Center's approach unique?  09:19 How does it connect knowledge to purpose?  LINKS:  WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise  Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

    10 min

  5. 12/29/2025

    Insights from a CPA and Franchisee - With Natalya Hummer

    DESCRIPTION: John Hayes interviews Natalya Hummer from FinaTech Accounting and Advisors, who also owns three Crumble Cookie franchises, in this episode of the Franchise Hot Seat Podcast. Natalya shares her experience as a CPA and her transition into the franchising world, highlighting the essential elements for franchisee success. They delve into the importance of comprehending business metrics, such as KPIs, and the difficulties new franchisees encounter when shifting from corporate roles. Natalya underscores the importance of recruiting the right team, being financially literate, and implementing a robust training system. She provides valuable insights on effectively controlling labor and costs, and ways for franchisors to enhance their support for franchisees. The discussion also explores the importance of branding, franchisor training, and how advisory and accounting firms assist franchisees in understanding their financial status. Natalya expresses gratitude for her involvement with the Titus Center Advisory Board and briefly discusses the student internship program. - With Natalya Hummer TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Intro 00:40 Why know your numbers in business? 02:39 Biggest franchising challenge and strategy? 07:14 How to hire the right people? 14:01 How did you discover franchising? 23:00 How important is brand recognition? 24:57 Key benefits and costs of franchising? 26:56 Why specialize in franchise accounting? 29:24 Key success factor for franchisees? 34:03 Insight from running multiple stores? LINKS: WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

    46 min

  6. 12/22/2025

    From Teacher to Successful Franchisee - With Deean Ferrone

    DESCRIPTION: John Hayes interviews Deean Ferrone on the Franchise Hot Seat, discussing her journey from being a teacher to becoming a successful franchisee of Pigtails & Crewcuts, a children's hair salon chain. Ferrone's transition to business ownership was sparked by the difficulties of virtual teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic. She and her husband conducted thorough research and due to fortunate circumstances, they were able to acquire three salons in just half a year. Ferrone emphasizes the value of her teaching skills in managing her business, the necessity of effective staffing and marketing, and the assistance she receives from her franchisor. They also discuss the ongoing issue of hiring stylists and the possibility of future growth, highlighting the advantages of franchising for those wary of starting a business from the ground up. - With Deean Ferrone. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Intro 00:36 How did Deanne get into franchising? 03:26 Biggest franchising challenge and opportunity? 07:34 Why are franchise systems so valuable? 18:04 How did teaching prepare for franchising? 25:26 How to manage a diverse team? 26:13 Connecting with clients and parents? 27:10 Daily life of a franchisee? 27:58 Why use DISC in franchising? 34:46 Unique challenge of children's hair salon? LINKS: WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

    49 min

  7. 12/01/2025

    Scaling Your Franchise with the Right Partners - With Shelly Sun Berkowitz

    DESCRIPTION: John Hayes, host of Franchise Hot Seat, interviews Shelly Sun Berkowitz, founder of  BrightStar Care, a leading healthcare franchising company with over 400 units.  Shelly discusses her transition from accounting to healthcare franchising, and her  strategic partnership with Peack Rock Capital. She stresses the importance of  choosing the right private equity partners and the value of supportive relationships  within the franchising community. Shelly introduces her advisory initiative, Founder  to Founder, designed to assist founders in scaling their businesses and navigating  sales processes. The discussion also covers the common misconceptions about  franchising, the necessity of robust franchisee support systems, and the importance  of ethical practices. Shelly shares her efforts to mentor female entrepreneurs and her  dedication to promoting equal access to franchising education. - With Shelly Sun  Berkowitz. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Intro 00:20 What is Shelly's Brightstar Care journey? 01:44 Why is franchising education so important? 05:58 Early franchising challenges and lessons? 11:02 Best mentorship advice for new franchisors? 16:44 How does the franchising economic model work? 24:36 How to hire the right talent? 27:23 How is private equity changing franchising? 37:47 Biggest challenge in selecting franchisees? 43:54 How to empower women in franchising? LINKS: WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

    47 min

  8. 11/24/2025

    The Future of Franchising with Franzy - With Alex Smereczniak

    DESCRIPTION: John Hayes interviews Alex Smereczniak, the co-founder and CEO of Franzy, in the  Franchise Hot Seat Podcast. Alex presents Franzy as a comprehensive platform for  potential franchisees, likening it to 'Zillow for franchising.' The platform aggregates  vital data such as financials, consumer sentiments, and franchisee feedback. The  interview explores Alex's professional journey, from transforming a laundry service  into a franchise model to establishing Franzy. The conversation also discusses the  transition from being a franchisor to a franchise supplier, the integral role of AI in  Franzy, and the critical importance of comprehensive franchisee profiling for  successful matches. The podcast also covers various industry insights, including the  need for a systematic approach, the potential influence of AI on the job market, and  the future of franchising in light of emerging technologies. The episode underscores  the importance of informed decision-making in franchising and the innovative ways  Franzy is striving to transform this process. - With Alex Smereczniak. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Intro 00:16 What is Franzi? 01:02 How did you get into franchising? 03:00 What problem does Franzi solve? 06:26 What makes Franzi's approach unique? 12:04 How does Franzi use AI and data? 16:00 How does Franzi monetize ethically? 22:52 Identifying good vs. bad franchise opportunities? 31:34 What is AI's role in franchising? 37:03 How to future-proof a franchise investment? LINKS: WEBSITE: http://franchisehotseats.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohnhayes/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjohnhayes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Howtobuyafranchise Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayesjph/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnphayesfranchise Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DrJohnHayes/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/franchisehotseatpodcast

    46 min
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Internationally recognized speaker, personal business coach and Amazon best-selling franchise author Dr. John Hayes offers an honest look at everything involved in researching, evaluating and purchasing a franchise business. On this podcast, Dr. John P Hayes interviews Franchisors, Franchisees, and has solo episodes giving valuable advice in the Franchise Industry. Since 1979, John Hayes has worked in the franchise community as a consultant, franchisee and franchisor. He’s one of an elite group worldwide that has actually owned and operated franchises, including serving as CEO of a major American franchisor company, and advised franchisors and franchisees. He is the author of several franchise-related books and countless articles that have appeared in media worldwide. Dr. Hayes has served for many years as an advisor to franchisors, franchisees and small business owners internationally. His areas of expertise include management development, marketing, customer service, training and strategic planning. He is the author or co-author of 18 non-fiction books including Franchising: The Inside Story, Start Small, Finish Big, You Can’t Teach A Kid To Ride A Bike At A Seminar, and most recently Buy “Hot” Franchises Without Getting Burned. Keywords: franchise tax board , chick fil a franchise , the franchise guy , best franchise to own , franchise business , buying a franchise , franchise opportunities , opening a franchise , owning a franchise

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