How Waffles Changed My Life: My Journey into Franchise Ownership

In 2021, my wife and I stood at a crossroads. After years in corporate America, we felt the itch for something different—a new adventure that we could call our own. We wanted more than a paycheck or a traditional career path. We were searching for fulfillment, freedom, and the kind of work that aligned with our life goals.

Like many aspiring entrepreneurs, we didn’t want to start from scratch. Although we had started some ventures completely from scratch, the idea of reinventing the wheel seemed both daunting and unnecessary. That’s when we discovered franchising—a model that offered the structure, support, and proven success we were looking for.

Our journey into franchise ownership took an unexpected turn when we stumbled across Press Waffle Co. during an episode of Shark Tank. The founders pitched their concept with such passion and clarity that we couldn’t help but be intrigued. A quick-service restaurant serving Liege-style Belgian waffles might not have been something we envisioned, but the opportunity checked every box for us.

What drew us in wasn’t just the product—it was the story behind it. Press Waffle Co. was founded on family values, innovation, and a deep commitment to quality. We saw not just a business, but a chance to join a community of like-minded individuals passionate about building something extraordinary.

The Roadblocks We Faced

Starting any business comes with its challenges, and franchising is no different. For us, the first hurdle was finding the right concept that aligned with our financial and lifestyle aspirations. The franchise world is vast, and making sense of the options was overwhelming at times.

Thankfully, we didn’t navigate this alone. Working with a skilled Franchise Consultant made all the difference. He spent hours talking to us about our goals, capabilities, finances, and personal interests. The consultant presented us with several franchise options that would help us achieve all of goals. We carefully investigated the concepts and performed our due diligence with each brand. Until finally….we DID NOT select any of these concepts.?

Not the outcome you were expecting from that setup, right?! But guess what? Even though we did not invest in a concept that the consultant recommended, we still got tremendous overall value out of going through the process. And we continued to work with the consultant for the next several years to come; evaluating additional opportunities and bouncing ideas off of them. We had developed a bond with the consultant. And it was a relationship that continued delivering value.

Once we signed the franchise agreement, we got to work on preparation: securing financing, scouting locations, hiring a team, and building a local presence. The early days were intense, but they laid the foundation for what would become a life-changing venture.

The Moment It All Clicked

I still remember the moment when everything came together. After months of hard work—designing systems, training staff, and perfecting operations—I realized something incredible: I no longer had to be there if I didn’t want to.

The systems we implemented worked seamlessly, allowing the business to run without constant oversight. That realization marked a turning point in my journey. I had achieved what so many entrepreneurs dream of—freedom to focus on what truly matters. Does that mean that everything always worked perfectly from that point forward? Of course not. The business still requires attention and problems do occasionally arise. But more times than not, one of the Managers that works in the business can step in and solve the problem or we get on the phone and discuss a solution together.

Life After Franchising

The impact of franchise ownership on my personal and financial life has been nothing short of transformative. For the first time, I felt in control—not just of my career, but of my time.

Owning a business meant I could prioritize my family. I became a more present husband and father, never missing a soccer game or a bedtime story. The ability to choose how I spend my days has been the greatest gift of all.

Beyond that, franchising opened doors I hadn’t even considered. New opportunities seemed to come effortlessly as I built relationships within the entrepreneurial community. Whether exploring additional business ventures or pursuing personal interests, I found myself living a life I once thought was out of reach.

Lessons Learned Along the Way

Throughout this journey, I’ve gained insights that I now share with aspiring franchise owners:

1. Trust the process. Building a successful business doesn’t happen overnight. Patience and persistence are key.
2. Hire the right team. Surround yourself with people who share your vision and values. A great team can make all the difference.
3. Stay open to opportunities. Sometimes, the best business idea isn’t what you expect. Keeping an open mind can lead to extraordinary results.
4. Plan for challenges. No business journey is without obstacles. Having systems and contingency plans in place will help you weather the storms.

Why I Became a Franchise Consultant

My positive experience with a franchise consultant played a significant role in my decision to help others. Navigating the franchise world can be daunting for newcomers. I wanted to offer the same expert guidance and support that made such a difference for me.

Franchising isn’t just about finding a business—it’s about finding the right business. That’s where I come in. My role as a consultant is to help prospective franchisees answer the most important question: Does this business align with your vision for success?

As a franchise consultant, I bring a unique perspective to the table. Having spent over 15 years in corporate America before transitioning into entrepreneurship, I understand the fears, doubts, and aspirations that come with making such a leap.

What sets my approach apart is my focus on the individual. Franchising isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about matching people with opportunities that align with their goals, values, and lifestyle preferences. And the best part? My services come at no cost to prospective franchisees.

Who Can Benefit from Franchising?

Franchising isn’t just for seasoned entrepreneurs. It’s an excellent option for:

• Aspiring business owners who want the support of a proven system.
• Investors looking to diversify their portfolio.
• Corporate professionals seeking a path out of the 9-to-5 grind.

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning your own business but felt unsure of where to start, franchising might be the perfect fit for you.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Looking back, investing in a franchise was one of the best decisions I ever made. It gave me the freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment I had always wanted—and it can do the same for you.

If you’re ready to explore the possibilities, let’s connect. Schedule a free consultation, and together, we’ll uncover the opportunities that could transform your life. Simply use the “Book an appointment” button on my LinkedIn profile to start a conversation.? Or click here: https://calendly.com/thefranchiseblueprint/30min

Final Thoughts

Franchising changed my life. It gave me not just a business, but a new perspective on what’s possible. Whether you’re looking for financial independence, more time with family, or a fresh start, franchising could be the key to unlocking your future.

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