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How to Take Control of YOUR Life, and Create FREEDOM for Yourself, Through Business Ownership
Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
Raisa Zovklaya didn’t have the money to start a franchise—so she entered a $20K fitness contest. She lost… but kept going anyway. In this episode, Wes sits down with Raisa to unpack her bold leap from nursing into franchise ownership with Project Lean Nation, how she funded it, built community, and found purpose. This is what betting on yourself really looks like.
⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00 – Wes mispronounces Raisa’s last name 😅
00:44 – Meet Raisa: Ukrainian-born, Syracuse-raised
05:13 – From CrossFit curiosity to franchise opportunity
06:50 – The $20K fitness contest that sparked everything
09:40 – Losing the contest but refusing to quit
11:15 – High-interest loan → franchise fee paid
13:30 – Choosing the perfect location with Tim
18:45 – What Project Lean Nation actually does
22:00 – Why passion, not profit, drove her decision
29:50 – Burnout, delegation, and team building
37:00 – How community and networking fuel real growth
45:10 – Why she says: “If you're in it just to open a business, this isn’t for you.”
55:00 – Her vision for store #2 (and beyond)
7 Steps to Owning a Franchise:
https://path2frdm-1.hubspotpagebuilder.com/path-to-freedom-about-franchising
🔗 Want help finding the right franchise? Book a free strategy call with Wes: https://calendly.com/wes-barefoot/introcallwithwes
Connect with Wes:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/path2frdm/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/path2frdm
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleybarefoot/
👍 Like, Comment & Subscribe for more insights on business, franchising, and financial freedom!
#Franchise #Leadership #Entrepreneurship
Thursday Jun 26, 2025
Thursday Jun 26, 2025
In this episode of Franchise Unfiltered, Wes Barefoot welcomes back Andy Fuller, founder and CEO of Mosquito Hunters — now expanded into Pest Hunters and Humbug Holiday Lighting. Andy shares the story behind the rebrand, the mindset shift from seasonal hustle to empire-building, and how his franchise model grew from a $2B niche into a $31B multi-service powerhouse.
Whether you're a franchisee, business owner, or aspiring entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with gold.
⏱️ Timestamps
00:16 – Why Andy Fuller is back: A major rebrand & new service lines
02:05 – From corporate burnout to business with purpose
05:14 – The 3-in-1 model: Pest Hunters, Mosquito Hunters, and Humbug Holiday Lighting
08:53 – Why holiday lighting isn’t just a side hustle anymore
15:01 – The “keeping up with the Joneses” effect driving massive demand
21:26 – Marketing strategy: Why “Christmas in July” works
26:59 – What the DQ Blizzard, Big Mac, and stuffed crust pizza have in common with franchising
30:30 – From $2B to $31B: The math that justified the rebrand
33:43 – Higher-caliber franchisee candidates since launching the 3-in-1 model
36:56 – Costs, equipment, and what new owners need to get started
7 Steps to Owning a Franchise:
https://path2frdm-1.hubspotpagebuilder.com/path-to-freedom-about-franchising
🔗 Want help finding the right franchise? Book a free strategy call with Wes: https://calendly.com/wes-barefoot/introcallwithwes
Connect with Wes:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/path2frdm/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/path2frdm
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleybarefoot/
👍 Like, Comment & Subscribe for more insights on business, franchising, and financial freedom!
#Franchise #Leadership #Entrepreneurship
Thursday Jun 12, 2025
Thursday Jun 12, 2025
After 14 years of building one of the highest-performing ShelfGenie franchises, Alan Regala sold his business and stepped into a brand-new chapter of life. In this episode of Franchise Unfiltered, Alan shares how he went from mechanical engineer to successful franchise owner — and what it really takes to build a business that’s actually sellable.
We cover:
✅ The mindset behind long-term success
✅ How to avoid burnout as a franchise owner
✅ The systems that make a franchise valuable
✅ Why most people don’t think about the exit early enough
✅ What Alan is doing now with Athlete2Owner
Whether you're considering buying a franchise, scaling your business, or preparing for a future exit, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
🎯 Learn how to build a business with freedom, flexibility, and long-term value.
Timestamps:
00:00 – From Franchisee to Friend: Alan’s 7-Year Journey
03:10 – The Exit Strategy Most Franchise Owners Ignore
05:45 – How to Build a Franchise That Doesn’t Depend on You
08:30 – The Systems That Made His Business Sellable
13:20 – From Engineer to Entrepreneur: Alan’s Career Shift
16:00 – The Book That Sparked His Business Mindset
20:10 – Why Franchising Was the Perfect Fit (And Almost Didn’t Happen)
25:40 – Innovating Inside the Franchise System
44:00 – The Moment He Knew It Was Time to Sell
57:00 – Life After the Exit: Coaching New Franchise Owners
7 Steps to Owning a Franchise:
https://path2frdm-1.hubspotpagebuilder.com/path-to-freedom-about-franchising
🔗 Want help finding the right franchise? Book a free strategy call with Wes: https://calendly.com/wes-barefoot/introcallwithwes
Connect with Wes:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/path2frdm/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/path2frdm
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleybarefoot/
👍 Like, Comment & Subscribe for more insights on business, franchising, and financial freedom!
#Franchise #Leadership #Entrepreneurship
Thursday May 29, 2025
Thursday May 29, 2025
In this episode of the Franchise Unfiltered podcast, Wes Barefoot sits down with Larry Oglesby—a former corporate executive turned fast-scaling franchisee. Larry shares how he transitioned from a 30-year corporate career into owning two franchise businesses in just 18 months: Redbox Plus Dumpsters and Cool Bins.
We dive deep into how Larry built his franchise portfolio under the Belfor umbrella, the surprising synergy between dumpster rentals and portable storage, and why trust, leadership, and people-first hiring are his secret weapons. Larry also reveals why he believes franchise ownership, franchise scalability, and franchise opportunity are more attainable than most think—even after losing seven figures during COVID.
Whether you're a burned-out executive, a curious entrepreneur, or someone looking to buy a franchise business, this episode is packed with raw, real-world wisdom from someone who’s walked the walk.
✅ Learn why Larry calls franchising a “second career with more freedom”
✅ Hear how he went from consulting global CEOs to hauling dumpsters (by choice!)
✅ Find out how to scale your franchise, scale your team, and scale your income
📍Larry operates Redbox Plus and Cool Bins in Greater Athens, GA.
Find him by searching: Redbox Plus Dumpsters Athens, Cool Bins Athens, or connect on LinkedIn.
7 Steps to Owning a Franchise:
https://path2frdm-1.hubspotpagebuilder.com/path-to-freedom-about-franchising
🔗 Want help finding the right franchise? Book a free strategy call with Wes: https://calendly.com/wes-barefoot/introcallwithwes
Connect with Wes:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/path2frdm/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/path2frdm
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleybarefoot/
👍 Like, Comment & Subscribe for more insights on business, franchising, and financial freedom!
#Franchise #Leadership #Entrepreneurship
Thursday May 15, 2025
Thursday May 15, 2025
Is boutique fitness oversaturated? Discover Strength doesn’t think so — because they’re doing it completely differently.
In this episode of Franchise Unfiltered, Wes sits down with Scott Breimhorst, VP of Franchise Development for Discover Strength, a cutting-edge fitness brand redefining what it means to own and operate a premium fitness franchise.
With a science-backed, twice-per-week strength training model, degreed exercise physiologists, and a high-end client experience, Discover Strength is turning heads — not just with customers, but with serious franchise investors.
💡 Learn:
-Why Discover Strength turns down unqualified candidates
-What makes resistance training the most in-demand fitness solution
-The unique culture and retention strategy behind their explosive growth
-Why they aim for 250 elite locations instead of 1,000+ mediocre ones
🔥 Whether you’re exploring fitness franchises or just want to know what’s next in boutique wellness, this episode is a must-watch.
7 Steps to Owning a Franchise:
https://path2frdm-1.hubspotpagebuilder.com/path-to-freedom-about-franchising
If you would like to learn more about this particular franchise opportunity or discuss franchise ownership in general - feel free to use the link to my calendar below to schedule a free, no-obligation introductory meeting.
https://calendly.com/wes-barefoot/introcallwithwes
Connect with Wes:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/path2frdm/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/path2frdm
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleybarefoot/
👍 Like, Comment & Subscribe for more insights on business, franchising, and financial freedom!
#Franchising #BusinessGrowth #Fitness
Thursday May 01, 2025
Thursday May 01, 2025
In this episode of the Franchise Unfiltered Podcast, Wes sits down with franchise veteran Zach Beutler to talk about his latest venture: Jungle Driving — a groundbreaking driver’s education concept that's saving teen lives and reshaping what franchising looks like in the education space.
We dive deep into:
✅ How Jungle Driving blends UPS safety methods with teen-focused learning
✅ What it takes to scale a franchise from one concept to a national brand
✅ Why most driver’s ed programs are outdated (and how Jungle fixes it)
✅ How Zach bounced back from bankruptcy to build one of the most promising new brands in franchising
✅ Creative, low-cost customer acquisition strategies without relying on digital ads
✅ Building a franchise system that parents and kids love
Whether you’re a parent, a franchise investor, or just someone passionate about business innovation — this is one you don’t want to miss.
🔗 Learn more: https://www.jungledriving.com
7 Steps to Owning a Franchise:
https://path2frdm-1.hubspotpagebuilder.com/path-to-freedom-about-franchising
If you would like to learn more about this particular franchise opportunity or discuss franchise ownership in general - feel free to use the link to my calendar below to schedule a free, no-obligation introductory meeting.
https://calendly.com/wes-barefoot/introcallwithwes
Connect with Wes:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/path2frdm/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/path2frdm
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleybarefoot/
Like this episode? Hit the like button, subscribe for more unfiltered franchise stories, and drop a comment if this inspired you.
#FranchisePodcast #JungleDriving #TeenDriversEd #FranchiseOpportunity #BusinessInnovation
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
In this episode of Franchise Unfiltered, Wes sits down with Tim Dougherty, the founder and CEO of Project Lean Nation, for one of the most jaw-dropping comeback stories in franchising.
In 2006, the FBI walked into Tim’s office and charged him with conspiracy to commit securities fraud. He served time in federal prison—and came out with nothing. But out of that brokenness, Tim rebuilt his life by serving others, starting with a few homemade meals and a dream to change lives through health and nutrition.
Today, Project Lean Nation is a fast-growing franchise built on purpose, accountability, and powerful transformation.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, aspiring franchisee, or someone looking for hope—you need to hear this story.
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:48 The FBI shows up
2:11 What is Project Lean Nation?
15:22 From prison to purpose
21:00 The first 1,000 meals
23:21 Redemption through service
34:04 How franchising came into play
55:04 Tech, scalability, and support
59:56 What makes a great franchisee?
1:08:54 Revenue potential and membership model
1:13:00 Final thoughts and contact info
Resources & Links:
Website: https://www.projectleannation.com
Franchise Info: https://www.projectleannation.com/franchise
Email Tim: tim@projectleannation.com
Follow Tim on Instagram: https://instagram.com/plntim
7 Steps to Owning a Franchise:
https://path2frdm-1.hubspotpagebuilder.com/path-to-freedom-about-franchising
If you would like to learn more about this particular franchise opportunity or discuss franchise ownership in general - feel free to use the link to my calendar below to schedule a free, no-obligation introductory meeting.
https://calendly.com/wes-barefoot/introcallwithwes
Connect with Wes:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/path2frdm/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/path2frdm
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleybarefoot/
Like this episode? Hit the like button, subscribe for more unfiltered franchise stories, and drop a comment if this inspired you.
#Franchise #RedemptionStory #Entrepreneurship
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
In this episode of the Franchise Unfiltered Podcast, Wes Barefoot chats with Susan, a former teacher turned franchise owner, who started her Gotcha Covered window treatment business in the middle of the 2008 recession.
Now, 17 years later, Susan shares how she created a successful and flexible business that gives her control over her time, lifestyle, and legacy. If you're thinking about franchise ownership, making a mid-life career change, or just want to learn how to build a business that fits your life—this episode is for you!
👇 Timestamps & Topics
00:00 – Intro
01:00 – Susan’s background: from teacher to franchise owner
03:30 – Why she started a business during the 2008 recession
06:00 – Building through referrals & relationships
08:30 – What Gotcha Covered does (and why it’s a great franchise)
12:45 – Selling design services with zero prior experience
20:00 – What franchise training and support look like
26:00 – Designing a business around lifestyle and freedom
33:00 – Community involvement & business growth
36:00 – Hiring subcontractors and installers
42:00 – Why Susan hasn’t scaled her sales team (and that’s okay)
47:30 – Advice for aspiring franchisees and career changers
🌐 Susan’s Business: Gotcha Covered of Eastern South Dakota: https://www.gotchacovered.com/eastern-sd/
📱 Follow Susan on Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanbtjarks/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-tjarks-811a3916/
7 Steps to Owning a Franchise:
https://path2frdm-1.hubspotpagebuilder.com/path-to-freedom-about-franchising
If you would like to learn more about this particular franchise opportunity or discuss franchise ownership in general - feel free to use the link to my calendar below to schedule a free, no-obligation introductory meeting.
https://calendly.com/wes-barefoot/introcallwithwes
Connect with Wes:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/path2frdm/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/path2frdm
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleybarefoot/
💡 Who This Episode Is For:
✔️ Aspiring entrepreneurs
✔️ People exploring franchise ownership
✔️ Career changers in their 40s, 50s, and beyond
✔️ Women in business
✔️ Anyone wanting more flexibility and control over their career
👍 Like this episode? Give it a thumbs up and subscribe for more interviews with real franchise owners and business experts!
🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss the next episode!
💬 Drop your questions and thoughts in the comments!
#FranchiseOwnership #FranchiseSuccess #CareerChange #GotchaCovered #Entrepreneurship #WomenInBusiness #BusinessOwnership #FranchisePodcast #LifestyleBusiness #HomeServicesFranchise
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
In this episode, Wes sits down with Mike Bahun, founder and CEO of Fundraising University, a fast-growing franchise that's transforming the way schools and sports teams raise money.
Mike shares how he turned his coaching background and entrepreneurial drive into a scalable business model that’s helped raise over $11 million for schools—while building a high-retention, high-impact franchise system.
You’ll learn:
✅ Why traditional school fundraisers are broken
✅ How Fundraising U’s service-based model raises more, faster
✅ The franchise opportunity and what makes it scalable
✅ Mike’s journey from pro baseball to business ownership
✅ How Fundraising U is helping schools meet critical funding needs
Whether you're a parent, coach, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone exploring franchise ownership, this conversation is packed with value.
🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:
🌐 Fundraising University: https://fundraisingu.net
🎧 Coaching Matters Podcast: https://coachingmatters.org
7 Steps to Owning a Franchise:
https://path2frdm-1.hubspotpagebuilder.com/path-to-freedom-about-franchising
If you would like to learn more about this particular franchise opportunity or discuss franchise ownership in general - feel free to use the link to my calendar below to schedule a free, no-obligation introductory meeting.
https://calendly.com/wes-barefoot/introcallwithwes
Connect with Wes:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/path2frdm/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/path2frdm
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleybarefoot/
👍 Like, Comment & Subscribe for more insights on business, franchising, and financial freedom!
#Franchising #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship
Thursday Mar 27, 2025
Thursday Mar 27, 2025
In this episode, I sit down with Shideler Bennett, a multi-unit Crumbl Cookies franchisee, SaaS founder, and business builder who scaled a $12 million portfolio by the age of 30. From cold-calling insurance agencies to building a 10-unit franchise empire and launching a software company that’s changing how franchisees operate — Shideler shares the gritty, behind-the-scenes truth of what it really takes to grow fast, take risks, and build a business that lasts.
Whether you're looking to buy a franchise, start a SaaS business, or just get inspired by someone who took massive action during uncertain times, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss.
🔑 What We Cover in This Episode:
How Shideler started with Crumbl Cookies during the pandemic
Scaling from 1 to 10 Crumbl locations across 3 states
Raising capital through creative funding (friends, family, investors)
Why he launched a SaaS platform for franchisors & franchisees (CoverPanda)
The emotional toll of rapid growth and how he pushed through doubt
Practical tips for franchise funding, scaling, and operations
What to know about owning a franchise in California
Why he believes franchising is the best fast track to entrepreneurship
🎯 Who This Episode Is For:
Aspiring franchise owners
Entrepreneurs in their 20s & 30s
Founders scaling multi-unit businesses
SaaS startup builders
Anyone looking for business growth inspiration
📈 Connect with Shideler Bennett: 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scheidlerbennett
💼 CoverPanda (SaaS for Franchises): https://coverpandaco.com
7 Steps to Owning a Franchise:
https://path2frdm-1.hubspotpagebuilder.com/path-to-freedom-about-franchising
If you would like to learn more about this particular franchise opportunity or discuss franchise ownership in general - feel free to use the link to my calendar below to schedule a free, no-obligation introductory meeting.
https://calendly.com/wes-barefoot/introcallwithwes
Connect with Wes:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/path2frdm/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/path2frdm
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleybarefoot/
👍 Like, Comment & Subscribe for more insights on business, franchising, and financial freedom!
#Franchising #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship