Best Sustainable CT Podcasts (2024)

1
Back to the Future, with Brett Larabee! 29:00

1d ago29:00

29:00

This week we are joined by Brett Larrabee, a seasoned franchise professional who has accomplished a great deal in his culinary and franchise career. Brett’s incredible journey began right out of college, as a franchisee…, not just any franchisee, but as Subway’s very first, in the City of Seattle. Over the next 20 years, Brett grew with Subway, ope…

1
In Conversation with James Osborn of Envest Asset Management 55:02

10h ago55:02

55:02

If you think "socially responsible investing" just might be an oxymoron, you wouldn't be alone, but you will be enlightened when you listen to James Osborn, founder of Envest - the first (and so far, the only) Certified B Corporation financial advisory firm in the state of Connecticut. James’ roots run deep in sustainability and Environmental, Soci…

1
Jamie Izaks, President All Points PR: His Journey From Journalism to PR Mastery! 35:00

7h ago35:00

35:00

This week we dive deep into the fascinating career of Jamie Izaks, co-founder and president of All Points Public Relations. Jamie's journey from journalism to the hospitality industry, and finally to entrepreneurship, is a story of inspiration and perseverance. Jamie and I have known each other for 18 years, but it wasn’t until recently that I trul…

1
From Cinderella to Wonder Woman-Aicha Bascaro, CEO of American Franchise Academy 35:00

6d ago35:00

35:00

This week we delve into the incredible journey of Aicha Boscaro, founder and CEO of the American Franchise Academy. Aicha recounts her unexpected entry into the franchising world, from her humble beginnings, freah out of college in the 80's, and out of business, after her retail boutique start-up failed. Looking for something easy to do, to pay her…

1
Alicia Miller: An Expert's Guide to Navigating Private Equity in Franchising! 30:00

20d ago30:00

30:00

Over the past two weeks, we've delved into some fascinating finance conversations, centered upon creating liuidity events via royalty transactions, thanks to insights from Sean Morrison and David Earle. This week, we remain in the capital arena with Alicia Miller, a strategic advisor to franchise founders, leaders, and investors. Alicia Miller is t…

1
David Earl, CFO, Stratus Building Solutions: Having Your Cake and Eating it Too! 32:00

27d ago32:00

32:00

Welcome to Franchise Today. In this week's episode, we continue our exploration of liquidity events that seem almost too magical to be true. Imagine achieving a liquidity event without sacrificing any equity or control over your brand. Last week, Sean Morrison from Diversified Royalty Management introduced us to this intriguing concept. Today, we'r…

1
Sustainable CT Fellows Adrian Huq and Jackie Flaherty explore sustainability work being done at Connecticut colleges 51:28

29d ago51:28

51:28

Sustainable CT Fellows Adrian Huq and Jackie Flaherty take over the big microphone this month to interview collegiate movers-and-shakers in the sustainability movement. Their guests include: Dylan Steer, President of EcoHusky, lead organizer with Fossil Fuel Free UConn, and UConn Office of Sustainability intern; Amelia Kearney, Founder and Former P…

1
Unlocking Liquidity Without Sacrificing Equity: A New Frontier in Franchising! 32:00

1M ago32:00

32:00

In this episode, we hear from Sean Morrison, CEO of Diversified Royalty, as we delve into a groundbreaking approach to achieving liquidity for founder-led franchise concepts, without giving up any equity. This method allows qualified franchisors to monetize their current royalty base at very generous multiples of EBITDA, with no need to sell any eq…

1
Graham Chapman: The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same! 34:00

2M ago34:00

34:00

This week on Franchise Today, I am joined by Graham Chapman, who shares his unique journey into the franchising world, a path paved with family ties and serendipitous encounters. Discover how Graham's early experiences with 919 Marketing, a family business turned industry leader, shaped his career and set the stage for his current ventures. As the …

1
Sticky Fingers Cooking School, CEO Erin Fletter: A Rising Star in Franchising! 34:00

2M ago34:00

34:00

This week I welcome Erin Fletter, the passionate founder and CEO of Sticky Fingers Cooking. Discover how Erin's humble beginnings at her kitchen table led to the creation of a thriving children's cooking school franchise. Learn about her inspiring journey, the challenges she faced, and the innovative systems she implemented to begin successfully sc…

1
A Conversation with Jamal Jimerson of Thought Partner Solutions 56:46

2M ago56:46

56:46

Thought Partner Solutions (TPS) is invested in opening doors to authentic social impact through values-based leadership development. With an unwavering commitment to a more inclusive world, they offer solutions to help their partners to build a more inclusive and equitable workplace. They are experts at uncovering organizational values and turning …

1
Donatos CEO, Tom Krouse: It's About the People, the Pizza, and a Whole Lot More! 32:00

2M ago32:00

32:00

In this episode of Franchise Today, I sit down with Tom Krause, CEO of Donato's Pizza, for a compelling conversation about the storied history and exciting future of the beloved pizza brand. Tom shares his unique journey into the franchising world, starting with his early days at McDonalds and Wendy's and eventually leading him to Donato's. He disc…

1
Tim Murphy, CEO of Boomers Parks: Turning Lemons into Lemonade! 43:00

3M ago43:00

43:00

This week I sit down with Tim Murphy, a company turnaround specialist, with a storied career in the restaurant, entertainment and franchising worlds. Tim shares his journey from working at Denny's Corporate to becoming a mentee of the late Applebee's International Founder and CEO, Abe Gustin Jr. Now, Tim has taken the helm at Boomers Parks a rising…

1
Keith Gerson: From Hippie Rocker, to Franchise Rock Star. 50 + Years in the Biz! 37:00

3M ago37:00

37:00

Welcome to another exciting episode of Franchise Today. This week,I welcome Keith Gerson, a trusted friend, respected peer, and an erstwhile frenemy. Keith delves into his early days in franchising, starting from his hippie rock-and-roll days to his first serious job responding to an ad in the Portland Oregonian. He recounts his journey from being …

1
Bryan Garcia of Connecticut Green Bank 58:20

3M ago58:20

58:20

We catch up with Bryan Garcia, long-serving president and CEO of Connecticut Green Bank - a quasi-public agency that leverages ratepayer funds with private capital to offer low-cost, long-term financing for clean energy projects. CT Green Bank was the first of its kind back in 2011, and they've not let up on innovation since. Hear about the Green B…

1
Adam Povlitz: Anago Franchisees Are Cleaning Up! 35:00

4M ago35:00

35:00

Since 1989, Anago has been making the dream of business ownership a reality. As CEO & President, Adam is deeply passionate about fostering entrepreneurship and the financial freedom that comes with it. He firmly believe that entrepreneurship is the cornerstone of economic progress. At Anago, they provide aspiring business owners with turnkey soluti…

1
Wing Snob Co-Founder and President Brian Shunia: Our Wings are Simply Better! 24:00

4M ago24:00

24:00

Brian Shunia is the President and Co-Founder of The Wing Snob™ brand and as such, he is dedicated to serving the very best, fresh, never frozen, mouthwatering, hormone-free chicken wings anywhere, topped by a variety of delectable signature sauces and flavorful dry rubs. Wing Snob™ operates as a modern, quick-service, fast casual style restaurant w…

1
"Right at Home," Talking Franchise Development, with Jen Chaney. 35:00

4M ago35:00

35:00

As Vice President of Franchise Development at Right at Home, Jen Chaney is responsible for the company's growth and development by awarding incredible franchise opportunities to interested and eligible candidates. Jen has direct oversight of new, prospective franchisees, as well as growth by expansion of existing franchisees. Jen is a strategic tho…

1
Gary Prenevost: Franchise Pro, CFA Board Member, Best Selling Author. 32:00

4M ago32:00

32:00

Gary Prenevost, has served on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Franchise Association for some 15 years, and has been a FranNet Rock Star for some 21 years. Now, he adds the titlea of best-selling author and sought-after Platform Speaker to his resume, as his recently released book the Unstoppable Franchisee, soars on USA Today’s List of Top 1…

1
The Weston High School Pollinator Garden 34:31

4M ago34:31

34:31

Weston High School teacher Michael Aitkenhead and a few of his industrious students joined us to discuss their pollinator garden project - an interactive ecosystem where students can get hands-on experience with wildlife and problem-solving. Good things happen in the spring at Weston HS, so join us to hear the buzz. A Community Match Fund project!…

1
Ricky Kalmon: How To Level Up Your Mindset! 32:00

5M ago32:00

32:00

RICKY KALMON is a growth mindset expert, a motivational speaker and are you ready for this, a celebrity hypnotist. Ricky delivers high-energy and mindset motivational keynote programs and corporate entertainment. His programs are inspirational and offer compelling, applicable tools, that anyone can use for both their personal and professional devel…

1
Ford Saeks Takes the Business of Franchising, to a Whole New Level! 29:00

5M ago29:00

29:00

This week on Franchise Today, we delve into the world of business acceleration and artificial intelligence (AI) in franchising, with our esteemed guest, Ford Saeks. An acclaimed business growth accelerator and early AI adapter, Ford brings refreshing insights to the table, shedding light on how AI is revolutionizing workflows across industries. Fea…

1
Engaging Spaces: Atmosphere TV Revolutionizes Public Viewing! 34:00

5M ago34:00

34:00

John Smolen, Senior Vice President of Global Distribution Sales at Atmosphere TV, joins us today to discuss the streaming platform’s benefits for franchises and businesses, like restaurants, bars, grills, taverns, and gyms.Atmosphere TV is known for replacing daytime TV in public spaces with engaging short-form content across 40+ channels and is re…

1
Colette Bell : Why "Ace is the Place, Where Your "Handyman Matters!" 40:00

5M ago40:00

40:00

In September, 2019, Ace Hardware successfully expanded its business by acquiring Handyman Matters and rebranding it as Ace Handyman Services, with a refreshed business strategy focused on expanding home improvement services. Under the leadership of Andy Bell, co-founder of Handyman Matters and CEO of the rebranded entity, Ace Handyman Services has …

1
Nicole Chevalier: Our Search for a New Executive Director 51:00

5M ago51:00

51:00

Nicole Chevalier - philanthropist, activist, writer, member of the Sustainable CT Board of Directors, and chair of our search committee for a brand new Executive Director - talks about the ED's role, how finding the right person is so important, and what the future holds for Sustainable CT.By Nicole Chevalier

1
John Francis, AKA: Johnny Franchise, on Franchising Done Right! 30:00

5M ago30:00

30:00

John Francis, a franchise expert, advisor, and speaker with over 30 years of experience, shares his deep understanding of the franchising world. Born into a franchise family, he was a franchisee and franchisor multiple times. His parents pioneered the franchise model in the hair salon industry, creating a global empire. John's diverse background in…

1
Alia Alston and Icebox Cryotherapy Studios: Our Q-1, Rising Star of Franchising! 37:00

6M ago37:00

37:00

This week Alia Alston, founder of Icebox Cryotherapy Studios, shares her personal journey and business insights on Franchise Today. A car accident and childbirth complications led her to discover the pain-relieving benefits of cryotherapy, prompting her to open the first retail cryotherapy studio in the United States. Despite her lack of experience…

1
The Many Voices of Franchising Convey What IFA Means To Them! 28:00

6M ago28:00

28:00

Last week in Phoenix, I invited attendees from various facets of the franchising community to share the impact IFA has had on their careers. Collectively, I am calling this the Many Voices of IFA and presenting it as this week's episode of Franchise Today. Seasoned industry professionals like Frank Fiume, Nick Friedman, Rocco Fiorentino, and others…

1
From Navy Wings to Sizzling Burgers: Doug Willmarth’s Trailblazing Journey! 30:00

6M ago30:00

30:00

Doug Willmarth shares his career journey from being a navy pilot to finding his passion in marketing and the restaurant business, leading to various roles including chief marketing officer at Wingstop and President at Mooyah Burgers, Fries, and Shakes. With experience in brand management at companies like Kraft Foods and PepsiCo, Willmarth transiti…

1
In Conversation with Mike Purcaro, Town Administrator of Vernon 48:06

6M ago48:06

48:06

A recent addition to the Sustainable CT Board of Directors, Mike Purcaro has been working with the Town of Vernon in one capacity or another for almost 20 years and as town administrator for the last seven years. Vernon is truly a Sustainable CT "success story" - over-achieving in nearly every action area since their registration in 2018. Join us t…

1
IFA CEO Matt Haller and the Countdown to Convention: "Franchise Smarter in 2024" 28:00

7M ago28:00

28:00

This week on Franchise Today, Matt Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association (IFA). offered a deep dive into various critical topics, notably the eagerly anticipated IFA Convention set to take place in less than two weeks in Phoenix. Haller shared insights into the convention, which aims to "franchise smarter" by fosterin…

1
The Intersection of Marketing and Technology with Heather Anderson 37:00

7M ago37:00

37:00

Heather Anderson shares her journey from working at a digital marketing agency to becoming Vice President of Marketing and Operations at The Little Gym, and then transitioning to a VP role at Eulerity, a supplier of efficient marketing platforms. She underscores the importance of adaptability in franchising and marketing, especially during the pand…

1
The Inspiring Journey of a Fitness Empire! 28:00

7M ago28:00

28:00

Meet Dave Mortensen, the visionary co-founder and president of Self Esteem Brands, who along with partner and co-founder Chuck Runyon, have taken the franchise world by storm with the renowned Anytime Fitness brand, now over 5,500 locations strong, across 41 countries! From being inspired by the structure of companies like Pizza Hut and McDonalds, …

1
Franchise Financing Icon Ron Feldman: Successfully Navigate 2024's Challenges! 36:00

7M ago36:00

36:00

As we enter 2024 franchising as a business model is navigating a complex landscape of challenges, including new legislation that affects their operations and various factors that influence business decision-making. The labor market has experienced significant shifts as the result of the pandemic, with many companies turning to technological automat…

1
Cindy Lignar, First Selectwoman of Chester 49:54

7M ago49:54

49:54

As a newly-elected First Selectwoman of Chester, Cindy Lignar's plate is pretty full these days, but she's graciously made time to chat with us. Prior to her election, Cindy headed the Chester Sustainability Team, demonstrating achievement in 12 sustainable impact areas ranging from inclusive community building and thriving local economies to vibra…

1
Jason Feifer, Editor in Chief: Entrepreneur Magazine 37:00

8M ago37:00

37:00

Jason Feifer in the Editor in Chief at Entrepreneur Magazine. Like most of us in the franchise world, Jason never anticipated that small businesses of any kind would become a cornerstone of his career, much less those in franchising. As a journalist, he wrote for various newspapers and magazines, with no particular attachment to the content. That a…

1
Jonathan (JT) Thiessen, CDO at Home Franchise Concepts Kicks Off 2024 38:00

8M ago38:00

38:00

With more than 30 years in the franchise space that includes 20 years leading Fran Dev at Home Franchise Concepts, JT opened doors and created opportunities for thousands of those who aspire to own their own business. Helping people make their dreams of business ownership a reality with low-cost, home-based franchise opportunities in the home servi…

1
In Conversation with Ted Shafer, Director of Economic Development for Winchester and Barkhamsted 52:34

8M ago52:34

52:34

We had the good-good fortune to be joined by Ted Shafer, currently serving as the director of economic development for the towns of Winchester (a recently Bronze certified town) and Barkhamsted. Ted served for 10 years as first selectman of Burlington, from 2011 until 2021, overseeing much of Burlington’s evolution into a climate and sustainability…

1
1800 Packouts Pres. Stefan Figley Ends Season 14 and We Look Ahead To '24. 38:00

8M ago38:00

38:00

Stefan Figley is President of 1-800-PACKOUTS. Since 2013, 1-800-Packouts has been shaping the contents restoration industry. Their story begins with a desire to create a consistent and professional process across the nation in the personal property space. Their greatest strength is their people, from the corporate team to their franchise owners. 1-…

1
Romp n' Roll, Act Two: Babz and Michael Barnett Tell Their Amazing Story! 31:00

9M ago31:00

31:00

This week we hear from Babz and Michael Barnett, a husband and wife franchisor team at the head of the table at Romp & Roll. Romp n' Roll is a young childhood enrichment exercise, education, STEAM and STEM concept, with an AMAZING story and it's co-founders are here to tell it. . It’s not every day that a US emerging franchisor in the early stages …

1
Ron Bender and Threshold Brands: Opening Doors to Better Lifestyles! 33:00

9M ago33:00

33:00

Ron Bender is an experienced Franchise Professional, dedicated to helping people improve their lives through franchise ownership with transparency and positivity in all aspects . He believes that enthusiastic networking, a strong social media presence, dynamic presentations and internal and external team building and mentoring help achieve top resu…

1
Ashly Loza, Co-Founder At Blue Maven: Ever So Thankful To Be in Franchising! 32:00

9M ago32:00

32:00

With nearly 10 years of experience in franchising, Ashly Loza brings both breadth and depth of knowledge as an experienced franchise executive. She has worked alongside 50+ franchise brands in a broad spectrum of areas including franchise sales, developing and implementing marketing and lead gen strategies, and driving operational excellence and ef…

1
Stacey Ryan: The Affable, Inspirational, COO at School of Rock! 32:00

9M ago32:00

32:00

This week you are going to have the pleasure of hearing from another very affable and capable franchise executive, as my guest today is Stacey Ryan, Chief Operating Officer at The School of Rock, one of my favorite franchised brands. As their website describes them, "The School of Rock is a trailblazing global children’s franchise concept, that has…

1
The Sustainable CT Fellowship Program: Adrian Huq, Dylan Steer, Mike Towle, and Ben Lovejoy 42:51

9M ago42:51

42:51

We gain some important insight about the value of the Sustainable CT Fellowship Program from the people who know it best and have seen it in action. We're joined by Adrian Huq, a 2023 Fellow with the Capitol Region Council of Governments; Dylan Steer, a 2023 Fellow with the Metropolitan Council of Governments; Michael Towle, deputy director of the …

1
A Celebration of Veterans Day, with IFA VetFran Chairman, Ralph Yarusso. 31:00

10M ago31:00

31:00

This is a very special Edition of Franchise Today, in celebration of Veterans Day, coming up Saturday November 11th 2023, at 11AM. Celebrations and parades will be kicking off across America in honor of all those who have served in our Nation ‘s Armed Forces. To help us better understand the close ties and connections between veterans and franchisi…

1
Restaurant Icon Paul Damico: Leading the Charge at Fuzzy's Taco Shop 34:00

10M ago34:00

34:00

Paul Damico grew up on Long Island, in New York. He holds 3 degrees in culinary and restaurant management including a Doctorate of Business Administration in Restaurant, Food, and Beverage Management from Johnson and Wales University. Paul began the first 14 years of his career working for the Host Marriott organization, working on travel plazas an…

1
Tarji Carter: Doing Well, By Doing Good! 30:00

10M ago30:00

30:00

Tarji Carter has been in franchise development for many years. Beginning with Carvel and Cinnabon at Focus Brands, and stops along the way at Dunkin Donuts, WIngstop and Bojangles. Today, she is the President of Guest First Services, a boutique consultancy and the Founder and President of The Franchise Player, a revolutionary initiative that aims t…

1
Steven Winter, Amelia Fortgang and Giovanni Zinn on New Haven's Gold certification 49:45

10M ago49:45

49:45

We catch up with Steve Winter, New Haven's Executive Director of Climate & Sustainability, along with his compatriots, climate activist Amelia Fortgang, and Giovanni Zinn, New Haven’s City Engineer, to talk about all that glitters in the Elm City... well, all things sustainable anyway. New Haven is the first municipality in Connecticut to achieve S…

1
Another Top Influencer: Tom Wood, President, CEO Floor Coverings International 33:00

11M ago33:00

33:00

Some have suggested that Floor Coverings International is to the flooring industry what Amazon is to retail.” My guest today, Floor Coverings International President and CEO Tom Wood says, “This business model is only becoming more and more relevant. Homeowners are looking for convenience and value, and they reward us for delivering it. Our ability…

1
Danessa Itaya: Leading the Charge at Bio One Inc. 32:00

11M ago32:00

32:00

Bio-One Inc. is the first crime and trauma scene cleaning franchise, with over 100 locations operating in 41 States. Bio-One is committed to providing excellent service in recovery and suicide cleanup, homicide cleanup, hoarding situations, junk removal, deceased animal recovery, and much more. Leading the charge, Bio One President Danessa Itaya is…

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