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. FEB 6

    How to Treat the Sale of Your Home Like a Business

    Rethinking Ownership 🧠🏡 Our hosts, along with Tim Street, founder of Foolproof FSBO, discuss a powerful idea: ownership is not a gamble driven by luck or instinct—it is a skill that can be learned, systematized, and repeated.  Reinvention and the Concept of the “Second Act” 🔄✨ Tim Street’s personal story illustrates the theme of reinvention. From growing up in Detroit, serving in the Marine Corps, working as a federal air marshal, joining tech startups, and eventually moving into real estate, Tim demonstrates that skills transfer across industries. Hope Is Not a Strategy ❌🙏 One of the central lessons from the episode is Tim’s assertion that hope is what you rely on when you do not have a plan. Many people approach business ownership or selling a home with optimism but without structure.  The Myth of the All-Knowing Expert 🧑‍🏫🚫 A major misconception addressed in the conversation is the belief that homeowners are unqualified to sell their own homes. Tim argues that this fear has been intentionally cultivated by the real estate industry. Homeowners live in their homes every day—they understand the neighborhood, the light, the quirks, and the benefits far better than an outsider ever could. Understanding Incentives and Fear-Based Messaging ⚠️💰 Tim highlights how incentives shape messaging. With average home prices around $500,000 and commissions often near 6%, tens of thousands of dollars are at stake in every transaction. Fear-based narratives—such as warnings about lawsuits, mistakes, Strategic Pricing Over Emotional Pricing 📊❤️➡️🧠 Another key lesson is the importance of pricing strategy. Buyers do not shop emotionally; they comparison-shop. Much like online retail, buyers filter by features first and price second, gravitating toward the most attractive option. Homeowners vs. Real Estate Investors 🏠⚖️🏢 While homeowners benefit from saving money, investors experience an exponential impact. Every dollar saved on commissions can be leveraged into future acquisitions. For investors, FSBO is not just about savings—it is about scaling faster and deploying capital more efficiently. Systems Create Freedom 🔓📈 The episode reinforces a powerful takeaway: freedom comes from systems. Whether in franchising, real estate, or entrepreneurship, success is rarely accidental. It is built through education, structure, and intentional action. Ownership, when approached systematically, becomes less risky, more empowering, and far more accessible than most people believe. 📚 [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/

    26 min

  2. FEB 3

    From Passion to Purpose: How 2B Organized Redefines Franchise Ownership

    Rethinking Business Ownership The video “Next Level Franchise Group – What Is Your Next?” explores a modern approach to business ownership—one that prioritizes lifestyle alignment, purpose, and sustainability over hustle culture 💡. Through an in-depth conversation with Betsy Miller, founder of the 2B Organized franchise, viewers gain insight into how a service-based business can scale nationally while staying deeply human-centered. 👩‍💼 The Origin of 2B Organized Betsy Miller’s journey into professional organizing began long before it was considered a viable career path. Her natural inclination toward organization showed up as early as childhood 🧸 and later resurfaced when she found herself unfulfilled in a traditional job. 🏠 What the Business Really Does Despite the name, 2B Organized is not just about tidy closets or pretty bins 🧺. The franchise provides comprehensive, people-centered services that often intersect with emotional and lifestyle transitions. Clients commonly include: –👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Busy families overwhelmed by clutter and schedules –👵 Seniors navigating downsizing or major life transitions –📦 Individuals preparing for moves or relocations –🏡 Homeowners staging properties for sale 🧠 The Philosophy: Organizing With Purpose A defining principle of the brand is meaningful decluttering. Every project starts with a purge—not to discard recklessly, but to help clients intentionally decide what belongs in their lives ✨. Rather than hiding clutter in labeled boxes, franchisees guide clients to see what they own, understand why it matters, and let go of what no longer serves them. Sentimental items are honored, not buried—often displayed or integrated into daily living spaces to preserve emotional connection. The result is more than organization: it’s reduced stress, saved time, fewer duplicate purchases, and homes that truly feel like safe spaces 🏡. 🤝 Who Makes a Strong Franchise Owner The video outlines several traits that predict success within the 2B Organized system: –🎨 A natural interest in organization and aesthetics –📊 Basic business and financial understanding –📣 Comfort with sales and local marketing (driven by genuine passion) –🧩 Coachability and willingness to follow a proven system ✅ 2B Organized demonstrates how a personal passion can evolve into a scalable, purpose-driven franchise. By blending systems, empathy, and lifestyle alignment, Betsy Miller offers a compelling answer to aspiring entrepreneurs asking one important question: What is your next? 🚀 📚 [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/

    30 min

  3. JAN 29

    Choosing the Right Franchise: How to Find the Business That Truly Fits You

    Many aspiring business owners ask a single, deceptively simple question: “What is the best franchise to buy?” 🤔 Our hosts explain why this question often leads to confusion, frustration, and often poor decisions. Drawing from real-world franchise consulting experience, they outline a more effective, human-centered approach to choosing the right franchise. Why There Is No “Best” Franchise The central message of the video is clear: there is no universally best franchise ❌. What works perfectly for one person may be completely wrong for another. Factors such as lifestyle goals, financial capacity, personal strengths, emotional drivers, and long-term vision all influence whether a franchise is a good fit. The Limits of AI and Online Searches 🤖 The hosts caution against relying solely on AI tools like ChatGPT or general Google searches when making franchise decisions. While AI can provide surface-level information, it has critical limitations: –It may give different answers to the same question –It focuses on facts, not emotions or motivation –It cannot challenge assumptions or explore deeper personal trade-offs –It tends to be overly positive and non-committal Start With Your “Why” 🎯 Instead of asking what franchise to buy, the better question is why you want to own a business. Our hosts describe their framework built around multiple dimensions—often referred to as their “Eight Fs”—that help candidates uncover true motivations. These may include: –Desired lifestyle and time freedom –Income goals and financial security –Family priorities –Personal fulfillment and purpose Without clarity on the “why,” it’s easy to choose a business that looks attractive but ultimately creates burnout or regret. The Value of Human Franchise Advisors 🤝 The video emphasizes the importance of working with experienced franchise consultants who act as matchmakers. Unlike algorithms, humans can: –Ask emotionally driven questions –Identify unrealistic expectations –Vet territory availability –Filter out brands that don’t align with goals The hosts describe a structured, nine-step franchise roadmap designed to save candidates time, money, and frustration. Choosing a franchise is not about chasing the most popular brand or the highest projected income 💰. It is about alignment—between the business, the lifestyle you want, and the person you are. The key takeaway here is simple but powerful: the best franchise is the one that fits you. 📚 [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/

    9 min

  4. JAN 12

    How AI Is Revolutionizing Franchise Research and What You Must Know in 2026

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a major player in nearly every industry, and franchising is no exception. 🌍 Entrepreneurs exploring business ownership are increasingly turning to AI platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini for insights.  1. How AI Is Changing Franchise Research AI systems can rapidly analyze massive datasets, generate business recommendations, and simulate candidate evaluations. These tools can: 🧭 Suggest industries aligned with user profiles (e.g., service-based, home-based, or pet-related franchises).💰 Summarize investment requirements and operational expectations.🛡️ Highlight potential “AI-proof” industries resistant to automation.2. The Gemini and ChatGPT Experiment In the video, our hosts tested both AI systems using a candidate profile: a 52-year-old executive looking to leave corporate life for business ownership. Gemini’s Output: Provided a 40-page report full of optimism but lacking realism. It suggested franchises like commercial cleaning and pet services without addressing financial feasibility or territory limits.ChatGPT’s Output: Produced a more strategic assessment, identifying franchises that fit leadership skills, semi-absentee ownership, and long-term equity potential.3. The Limitations of AI in Franchise Decision-Making The episode’s key message: AI cannot replace human expertise in franchise matchmaking. The Risases identified major shortcomings: ❌ Inaccurate Financial Matching: AI recommended Dogtopia despite its $600K+ cash requirement, far above the candidate’s $35K.❌ No Territory Awareness: AI doesn’t track franchise territory availability, which changes frequently.❌ Emotional Disconnect: AI cannot evaluate personal motivations, values, or lifestyle aspirations.4. Human Expertise: The Missing Link While AI can introduce aspiring franchisees to basic ideas, human franchise placement specialists add unmatched value by: Conducting financial and personality assessments.Matching candidates to opportunities that fit their “why.”Providing realistic investment advice and territory verification.5. The Balanced Approach: AI + Human Guidance Instead of competing, AI and consultants can collaborate effectively. AI can: Help clients explore industries before consultations.Educate them on franchise terminology and business structures.Generate a short list of franchises for discussion.📚 [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/

    19 min

  5. JAN 6

    Unlocking Franchise Success: Why Experience Isn’t Required to Own a Thriving Franchise

    One of the most frequently asked questions by aspiring franchise owners is: “Do I need experience in the industry to own a franchise?” The short answer, as explained by our hosts, is no. In fact, prior experience can sometimes work against you.  The Myth of Industry Experience Many people assume that success in franchising depends on technical expertise or years of experience in a specific field. However, franchising is designed to offer a proven system that anyone can follow. 🧩 Franchisors provide training, support, and established procedures that make it possible for individuals with little to no background in the industry to succeed. Our hosts, successful franchise owners themselves with 19 years of experience, shared that before owning their coffee and smoothie franchise, they had no prior food service experience. Yet, they became the top franchisees in their network. Their story debunks the myth that experience equals success. Why Franchisors Prefer System Followers Franchisors typically look for people who can follow instructions and maintain consistency rather than experts with pre-set habits. People with deep industry experience often bring their own ways of doing things, which may conflict with the franchise’s tested systems.  In other words, the best franchisees are not necessarily experts but are coachable leaders who can apply systems effectively. Working On the Business vs. In the Business A key principle emphasized by our hosts is the difference between working on the business versus working in the business. Many franchisees make the mistake of becoming overly involved in daily operations instead of focusing on strategy, growth, and leadership. 📊 The True Qualities of a Successful Franchisee –💬 Coachability: Openness to learning and following systems. –💪 Leadership: Ability to motivate and manage a team. –🌱 Resilience: Willingness to adapt to challenges and learn from setbacks. –🎯 Strategic thinking: Focusing on growth and customer satisfaction rather than routine work. Keep an Open Mind The franchise world offers thousands of opportunities across industries — from food service to home improvement and wellness. Many successful franchise owners end up thriving in industries they had never considered before. 🌟 The key is to approach the journey with curiosity, openness, and a willingness to trust the system. Franchising isn’t about what you already know; it’s about what you’re willing to learn and how you apply it. 📚 [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/

    7 min

  6. 12/31/2025

    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

  7. 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

  8. 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 Kohl, 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 ⚙️ Kohl’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, Kohl 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, Kohl turned adversity into advantage, reclaiming clients and exceeding his original earnings. 4. Lessons from Life Beyond Business ❤️ Interestingly, Kohl 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. Kohl reframed fear as a signal to prepare more deeply. Instead of fearing failure, he feared being unprepared.  6. The “Over-Prepared” Mindset 💡 Kohl’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, Kohl 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 Kohl’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
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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 - 2026
  • Episodes
    129
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 What's Your Next?
  • Show Website
    What's Your Next?