What's Your Next?

Stacey Riska
  • 5.0 (1)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Providing great information to help aspiring Entrepreneurs transition out of their current business or corporate job into another business or franchise.

  1. 4D AGO

    What Franchise Lawyers Know That Buyers Don't (and Why It Matters)

    🏢 The Franchise Dream and Its Hidden Complexity Owning a franchise is often viewed as the perfect balance between entrepreneurship and support. It offers a proven system, brand recognition, and the potential for financial independence. However, behind every dream of business ownership lies a dense web of legal obligations. ⚖️ The Role of a Franchise Attorney A franchise attorney serves as both a translator and protector. Franchise agreements and Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs) can run hundreds of pages, filled with complex legal language. Kelly Spann, an attorney with over two decades of experience, explains that her role isn’t just about reading contracts — it’s about interpreting the relationships, rights, and responsibilities they create. Unlike general contract law, franchise law involves unique dynamics. 🚩 Red Flags in Franchise Agreements Kelly shares that not all franchisors operate ethically. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing red flags early on, such as: --Ongoing or recent litigation listed in Item 3 of the FDD. --Lack of experience among the franchisor’s leadership. --Misleading claims about franchise regulation or financial performance. --Franchisors who discourage legal review, labeling attorneys as “deal breakers.” 📑 Timing and Process of Legal Review Prospective franchisees should consult an attorney as soon as they receive the FDD. The law requires a 14-day cooling-off period before signing, but Kelly recommends using this time to: --Thoroughly read the FDD. --Schedule a consultation with a franchise attorney. --Ask questions about unclear terms or obligations. 💔 The Cost of Neglecting Legal Counsel Kelly recounts heartbreaking cases of franchisees who lost their life savings — and even their families — due to bad franchise investments. Many fell prey to predatory systems that used gaslighting, misinformation, or unrealistic promises. 💡 Building a Healthy Franchise Relationship A successful franchise partnership thrives on communication, transparency, and trust. Miscommunication is often the root cause of disputes, and attorneys like Kelly act as mediators — helping both sides understand each other’s perspectives.  🧭 Investing in a franchise can be a powerful step toward financial freedom — but only if approached with full awareness. As Kelly Spann wisely states, “Your job is to plan for success. My job is to plan for everything that could go wrong.” By combining optimism with legal diligence, franchisees can confidently pursue their entrepreneurial dreams while protecting their futur 📚 [Resources] 📝 QUIZ: WHAT FRANCHISE CONCEPT IS RIGHT FOR YOU? https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/whats-your-perfect-franchise-quiz 💰 FREE FRANCHISE INVESTMENT CALCULATOR https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/franchise-investment-calculator 📖 FREE E-BOOK: THE ROADMAP TO BUYING A FRANCHISE - IN 9 EASY STEPS https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/files/the-roadmap-to-buying-a-franchise-in-9-easy-steps.pdf 📰 TONS OF ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND CONTENT https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com CONTACT US 👍https://www.NextLevelFranchiseGroup.com/contact 📰https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-level-franchise-group/

    38 min

  2. 12/18/2025

    Overcoming Fear and Building Freedom Through Franchising

    In the episode, our hosts discuss the mindset and motivations behind entrepreneurship, particularly through franchising. The conversation offers valuable lessons for anyone considering leaving the corporate world to pursue business ownership. 1. 😨 The Fear Factor: Why People Hesitate to Start a Business One of the central themes discussed is fear — the number one obstacle preventing people from exploring entrepreneurship. Most individuals grow up in an environment that encourages safety and stability rather than risk and innovation. Schools teach theory and train future employees, not business owners. As a result, many adults feel ill-equipped and lack the confidence to take the leap into business ownership. Fear is natural — and even necessary. The key is not to eliminate fear but to channel it into motivation. Fear signals growth and change, and those who act despite it often discover new levels of personal freedom and fulfillment. 2. 🤝 The Power of Exposure and Mentorship Exposure plays a crucial role in entrepreneurial thinking. Without role models, mentors, or examples of successful business owners, entrepreneurship can seem distant or unrealistic. People who grow up around business-minded individuals are more likely to view self-employment as attainable. 3. 🏗️ Why Franchising Makes Entrepreneurship Accessible For those who fear starting from scratch, franchising provides a proven and structured path. Franchise systems already have established operations, marketing, and support models — effectively reducing uncertainty for new owners. The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) ensures transparency by revealing the company’s performance and financial history. 4. 💡 From Employment to Empowerment Corporate jobs often come with stability, but also with burnout, stress, and lack of control. Many people long to trade “meetings for meaning”. Entrepreneurship, especially through franchising, offers flexibility, purpose, and the ability to shape one’s destiny. Owning a franchise means building an asset — something that can appreciate, be sold, or even passed down as a legacy. Unlike working for someone else’s dream, entrepreneurship allows individuals to build their own. 5. 🔥Fear as the Gateway to Freedom We close with a powerful reminder: fear is a part of the journey. Every successful entrepreneur experiences it. The difference lies in how one responds — by letting fear paralyze them or propel them forward. With the right support, education, and courage, anyone can move from fear to freedom. 📚 [Resources] 📝 QUIZ: WHAT FRANCHISE CONCEPT IS RIGHT FOR YOU? https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/whats-your-perfect-franchise-quiz 💰 FREE FRANCHISE INVESTMENT CALCULATOR https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/franchise-investment-calculator 📖 FREE E-BOOK: THE ROADMAP TO BUYING A FRANCHISE - IN 9 EASY STEPS https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/files/the-roadmap-to-buying-a-franchise-in-9-easy-steps.pdf 📰 TONS OF ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND CONTENT https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com CONTACT US 👍https://www.NextLevelFranchiseGroup.com/contact 📰https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-level-franchise-group/

    11 min

  3. 12/16/2025

    From Setbacks to Success: How To Turn Business Mistakes into Entrepreneurial Mastery

    In the world of entrepreneurship, mistakes are inevitable. What separates successful entrepreneurs from the rest is not the absence of mistakes but their ability to learn, adapt, and transform setbacks into stepping stones. 1. Mistakes as Foundations for Growth 🌱 Dave Cole, a serial entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience, describes mistakes as the essential “war stories” of business. Each failure, he explains, builds character, sharpens awareness, and teaches vital lessons that formal education often overlooks. 2. The Cost of Overconfidence and the Power of Preparation ⚙️ Cole’s downfall began with confidence that his attention to detail was enough. When unexpected costs surfaced—such as premium paper not covered in the original contract—his lack of verification led to financial ruin. The takeaway: entrepreneurs must verify every assumption. 3. Rebounding and Reinvention 🔁 After bankruptcy, Cole faced not only business loss but also personal financial hardship. Yet he didn’t give up. By maintaining old professional relationships, he found new business opportunities. When a dishonest partner tried to cut him out of profits, Cole turned adversity into advantage, reclaiming clients and exceeding his original earnings. 4. Lessons from Life Beyond Business ❤️ Interestingly, Cole draws parallels between his business and personal life. His first marriage failed, but he used that experience to build a stronger, more lasting relationship the second time around. 5. Fear, Failure, and Over-Preparation 💪 Many aspiring entrepreneurs are paralyzed by fear—fear of rejection, loss, or inadequacy. Cole reframed fear as a signal to prepare more deeply. Instead of fearing failure, he feared being unprepared.  6. The “Over-Prepared” Mindset 💡 Cole’s professional philosophy centers on over-preparation. He encourages individuals to list all possible reasons, strategies, and outcomes—then choose the best among them. 7. Teaching and Giving Back 🎓 Today, Cole applies his experiences to coaching real estate investors and small business owners. His focus is helping clients present themselves effectively, make smarter decisions, and communicate with authenticity.  Conclusion 🚀 Dave Cole’s journey is a powerful reminder that every mistake contains a hidden lesson. Entrepreneurs who adopt his philosophy of over-preparation, resilience, and reflection can turn even the most painful failures into stepping stones toward success. His closing advice resonates across every industry: “Be overprepared and double-check everything.” 📚 [Resources] 📝 QUIZ: WHAT FRANCHISE CONCEPT IS RIGHT FOR YOU? https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/whats-your-perfect-franchise-quiz 💰 FREE FRANCHISE INVESTMENT CALCULATOR https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/franchise-investment-calculator 📖 FREE E-BOOK: THE ROADMAP TO BUYING A FRANCHISE - IN 9 EASY STEPS https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/files/the-roadmap-to-buying-a-franchise-in-9-easy-steps.pdf 📰 TONS OF ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND CONTENT https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com CONTACT US 👍https://www.NextLevelFranchiseGroup.com/contact 📰https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-level-franchise-group/

    39 min

  4. 12/10/2025

    Do I Have Enough? Understanding Investment Tiers and Franchise Funding

    Starting a franchise is one of the most practical ways to enter entrepreneurship without reinventing the wheel. However, one of the most common questions prospective franchisees ask is: "How much money do I need to start a franchise?" The answer is nuanced, as franchise investments vary widely depending on the type, brand, and structure of the business. In this article, we’ll explore franchise investment levels, financing options, and strategies to ensure financial readiness. 💰 Franchise Investment Tiers Franchise opportunities can generally be categorized into three tiers of investment: –Lower Tier ($50,000 – $150,000) These are typically home-based or mobile businesses that require minimal physical setup. Examples include cleaning services, consulting franchises, and online education businesses. –Mid Tier ($150,000 – $300,000) This range covers businesses that may require leased space or light buildouts—think fitness studios, small cafes, or boutique service brands. –High Tier ($300,000 and up) These are brick-and-mortar operations, often with substantial overhead and staffing needs, such as restaurants or retail stores. 🏦 Financing Your Franchise One of the biggest misconceptions about franchising is that you must have the full investment amount in cash. In reality, there are several financing strategies available: –HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit): Borrowing against home equity can provide low-interest funding for franchise acquisition. –ROBS (Rollover for Business Startups): Allows entrepreneurs to use retirement funds (like a 401k) without incurring penalties or taxes. –SBA and Business Loans: The U.S. Small Business Administration backs loans that are particularly favorable to franchise buyers due to the proven success rates of franchise systems. 💵 Cash on Hand: The $25K Rule While financing can cover much of the investment, franchise experts recommend maintaining at least $25,000 in liquid assets. This ensures: –The ability to cover personal and living expenses during ramp-up. –Flexibility for deposits, supplies, or emergency needs. –Proof to lenders and franchisors of your financial stability. 🤝 The Role of Franchise Matchmakers Franchise consultants like those from Next Level Franchise Group play an important role in helping aspiring owners align their budget, lifestyle, and goals with suitable franchise opportunities. Their process involves: –Assessing personal resources. –Matching candidates to investment tiers. –Advising on financial readiness. 📚 [Resources] 📝 QUIZ: WHAT FRANCHISE CONCEPT IS RIGHT FOR YOU? https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/whats-your-perfect-franchise-quiz 💰 FREE FRANCHISE INVESTMENT CALCULATOR https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/franchise-investment-calculator 📖 FREE E-BOOK: THE ROADMAP TO BUYING A FRANCHISE - IN 9 EASY STEPS https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/files/the-roadmap-to-buying-a-franchise-in-9-easy-steps.pdf 📰 TONS OF ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND CONTENT https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com CONTACT US 👍https://www.NextLevelFranchiseGroup.com/contact 📰https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-level-franchise-group/

    8 min

  5. 12/03/2025

    Your Franchise Questions Answered: How Do I Know If I Am A Good Fit For A Franchise?

    Franchising can be one of the most accessible ways to start your own business without building everything from scratch. But many aspiring entrepreneurs wonder, “Am I the right type of person to own a franchise?” In this article, inspired by insights from our hosts at Next Level Franchise Group, we’ll explore how to determine if you’re truly franchise-ready. 💡 Understanding the Franchise Model A franchise allows you to operate a business under an established brand and proven system. You pay a franchise fee and ongoing royalties, but in exchange, you receive training, support, and a tested business model. This setup reduces some of the risks of starting from zero—but it also means you must follow the franchisor’s rules and systems faithfully. 🧠 Do You Have the Right Mindset? Owning a franchise isn’t about reinventing the wheel—it’s about mastering a system that already works. Successful franchisees: –Follow proven systems: They understand that consistency leads to brand success. –Value collaboration: Franchises thrive on teamwork—both with the franchisor and other franchise owners. –Embrace learning: Training and feedback are essential parts of growth. –Stay persistent: Like any business, challenges arise, but the willingness to adapt is key. 🔍 Assessing Your Transferable Skills You don’t need an MBA or prior business ownership experience to run a franchise. What matters more are your transferable skills. Ask yourself: –Can I communicate effectively with employees and customers? –Do I lead teams and motivate others to perform well? –Am I organized and detail-oriented? –Can I follow systems without cutting corners? If you said yes to most of these, you likely have what it takes to succeed in a franchise environment. 🔥 Common Motivations for Franchising Many franchise owners come from corporate backgrounds where they feel burnt out, bored, or constrained. Franchising offers them: –Freedom: The ability to manage their own schedule. –Balance: A healthier work-life structure. –Fulfillment: The satisfaction of owning something meaningful. Recognizing these motivators can help you clarify whether franchising aligns with your personal goals and values. 🚀 Final Thoughts Franchising isn’t reserved for business prodigies or industry veterans—it’s for people who are disciplined, coachable, and ready for growth. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working within structured systems, and are eager to build something lasting, you may already be franchise-ready. 📚 [Resources] 📝 QUIZ: WHAT FRANCHISE CONCEPT IS RIGHT FOR YOU? https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/whats-your-perfect-franchise-quiz 💰 FREE FRANCHISE INVESTMENT CALCULATOR https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/franchise-investment-calculator 📖 FREE E-BOOK: THE ROADMAP TO BUYING A FRANCHISE - IN 9 EASY STEPS https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/files/the-roadmap-to-buying-a-franchise-in-9-easy-steps.pdf 📰 TONS OF ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND CONTENT https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com CONTACT US 👍https://www.NextLevelFranchiseGroup.com/contact 📰https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-level-franchise-group/

    6 min

  6. 11/25/2025

    Franchise Turf Wars and the Truth About Territory Competition

    Franchising is a powerful way to build wealth and achieve financial freedom, but one of the most misunderstood aspects of the business is the concept of territory. This review provides valuable insights into how franchise territories work, the difference between protected and open territories, and how to make smart decisions when investing in them. 🗺️ What Is a Franchise Territory? A franchise territory refers to the geographical area in which a franchisee can operate their business. This territory defines where they can sell, market, and provide services. It is usually outlined in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) under Item 12, which details the rights and boundaries of the territory. 🔐 Protected vs. Open Territories Protected Territories A protected territory means that the franchisee has exclusive rights to operate within a specific area. No other franchisee of the same brand can open or sell within that boundary. Open Territories An open territory gives the franchisee freedom to operate anywhere, but without exclusivity. While this model may seem riskier, it provides flexibility and mobility — particularly beneficial if the franchisee anticipates relocating or wants to explore new markets. 💡 How Franchisors Define Territories Franchisors use various methods and data-driven tools to define territories, including: –Population-based models: e.g., one franchise per 75,000 households. –Income-based models: e.g., targeting households earning above $65,000 per year. –ZIP code or mapping systems: ensuring equitable market distribution. They often use sophisticated mapping software and collaborate with franchisees to ensure the territory reflects both demographic potential and local expertise. 🧭 Key Takeaways –Review Item 12 of the FDD to fully understand your territorial rights. –Decide between protected and open models based on your long-term goals. –Use demographic and market data to assess the potential of your area. –Consider securing multiple territories if expansion is part of your vision. –Consult with franchise experts to validate opportunities before committing. 📚 Understanding territories is crucial to franchising success. Whether you choose a protected model for stability or an open model for flexibility, knowing how territories work — and how to leverage them strategically — can make the difference between owning a job and owning a thriving business empire. 📚 [Resources] 📝 QUIZ: WHAT FRANCHISE CONCEPT IS RIGHT FOR YOU? https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/whats-your-perfect-franchise-quiz 💰 FREE FRANCHISE INVESTMENT CALCULATOR https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/franchise-investment-calculator 📖 FREE E-BOOK: THE ROADMAP TO BUYING A FRANCHISE - IN 9 EASY STEPS https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/files/the-roadmap-to-buying-a-franchise-in-9-easy-steps.pdf 📰 TONS OF ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND CONTENT https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com CONTACT US 👍https://www.NextLevelFranchiseGroup.com/contact 📰https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-level-franchise-group/

    10 min

  7. 11/06/2025

    Next Level Business: The Rise of Social Impact Franchising

    In today’s world of entrepreneurship, success is no longer measured by profits alone 💰. It’s about purpose—making a difference while building a sustainable business. This concept defines social impact franchising, where passion, purpose, and profit work hand in hand 🤝. What Is Social Impact Franchising? Social impact franchising combines the proven systems of franchising with a strong community mission. Businesses in this model are designed to generate income and address social or environmental challenges 🌱. As hosts put it, “passion plus purpose equals profits.” Why It’s Gaining Popularity Several forces are fueling the rise of this business trend: –💡 Changing Workforce Values –👩‍💼 Baby Boomers Seeking Purpose –🌐 Post-Pandemic Awareness Examples of Social Impact Franchises Here are a few industries leading the charge: –🎓 Education: Tutoring and learning centers that empower children to grow and thrive. –🧓 Senior Care: Franchises offering home modifications and mobility assistance for aging populations. –🔄 Sustainability: Businesses focused on recycling, upcycling, and transforming used materials into valuable products. –🧘 Health & Wellness: Fitness studios, nutrition programs, and mental health services making communities healthier. Who Thrives in This Model? Socially conscious individuals are best suited for this model. Teachers, nurses, veterans, and nonprofit leaders often succeed because they are naturally service-driven 💖. How to Choose the Right Social Impact Franchise Choosing the right franchise starts with self-discovery 🔍. Consider what values and causes resonate most with you. The Next Level Franchise Group recommends using their five-minute self-assessment to clarify what motivates you. DOWNLOAD SELF ASSESSMENT: The Future of Business: Purpose and Profit Together Gone are the days when profit and purpose were separate goals. Modern entrepreneurs understand that businesses thrive when they uplift communities. 🌟 Social impact franchising proves that financial success and social responsibility are not competitors—they are collaborators. The world of franchising is evolving toward impact, empathy, and innovation. Social impact franchises empower individuals to align their business goals with their desire to do good. As we move forward, this model will redefine entrepreneurship—balancing personal success with collective progress 🌎. 📚 [Resources] 📝 QUIZ: WHAT FRANCHISE CONCEPT IS RIGHT FOR YOU? https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/whats-your-perfect-franchise-quiz 💰 FREE FRANCHISE INVESTMENT CALCULATOR https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/franchise-investment-calculator 📖 FREE E-BOOK: THE ROADMAP TO BUYING A FRANCHISE - IN 9 EASY STEPS https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/files/the-roadmap-to-buying-a-franchise-in-9-easy-steps.pdf 📰 TONS OF ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND CONTENT https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com CONTACT US 👍https://www.NextLevelFranchiseGroup.com/contact 📰https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-level-franchise-group/

    8 min

  8. 10/25/2025

    Lessons from Studio Pilates and Entrepreneurial Grit

    🌟 The journey of Jade Winter, founder of Studio Pilates, is a powerful case study in entrepreneurial resilience, innovation, and purpose-driven business. From taking a 💳 $10,000 credit card advance to founding a global franchise with over 120 locations, Jade’s story embodies the fusion of athletic discipline and business acumen. His transition from Olympic swimmer to global franchisor offers insights valuable to entrepreneurs across all industries. ❤️ The Power of Purpose Over Profit At the heart of Studio Pilates lies a mission that extends beyond financial success. Jade and his wife built their business on a passion for health and helping others. Their goal—to transform one million lives each week—highlights a purpose-centered vision. This philosophy underlines that sustainable success often arises from service and impact, not mere revenue pursuit. 🧩 Building a Scalable Model One of the most revolutionary decisions in Studio Pilates’ growth was integrating video-based instruction on studio screens. This innovation allowed instructors to focus on personal interaction rather than demonstration. The result was a more consistent customer experience and the ability to serve more people per class—laying the groundwork for scalability. 🌍 Universal Accessibility: Redefining Boutique Fitness Studio Pilates differentiates itself by removing exclusivity from boutique fitness. Instead of catering only to the 20–35-year-old demographic, the company welcomes clients aged 20 to 85. Workouts are adaptive and inclusive, ensuring that anyone, regardless of fitness level, can participate and progress. 🚀 Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Jade Winter’s journey offers several key takeaways: Start lean but think big: A $10,000 investment can ignite a global movement with the right vision. –Learn from failure: Early mistakes became the blueprint for Studio Pilates’ robust systems. –Focus on people: Whether clients, employees, or franchisees, people form the foundation of success. –Innovate relentlessly: Innovation doesn’t always mean technology—it’s often about solving human challenges. 🏆 The story of Studio Pilates demonstrates that success in business is not merely about scaling fast—it’s about scaling with integrity. By merging passion, innovation, and empathy, Jade Winter has created a model that inspires both aspiring entrepreneurs and established business leaders. His philosophy is best summarized by his own words: “We want to change the way the world works out.” And through Studio Pilates, he’s already well on his way. 📚 [Resources] 📝 QUIZ: WHAT FRANCHISE CONCEPT IS RIGHT FOR YOU? https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/whats-your-perfect-franchise-quiz 💰 FREE FRANCHISE INVESTMENT CALCULATOR https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/franchise-investment-calculator 📖 FREE E-BOOK: THE ROADMAP TO BUYING A FRANCHISE - IN 9 EASY STEPS https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com/files/the-roadmap-to-buying-a-franchise-in-9-easy-steps.pdf 📰 TONS OF ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND CONTENT https://www.nextlevelfranchisegroup.com CONTACT US 👍https://www.NextLevelFranchiseGroup.com/contact 📰https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-level-franchise-group/

    34 min
See All (124)

Ratings & Reviews

About

Providing great information to help aspiring Entrepreneurs transition out of their current business or corporate job into another business or franchise.

Information

  • Creator
    Stacey Riska
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    124
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 What's Your Next?
  • Show Website
    What's Your Next?