FranchiseU!

On this episode of the FranchiseU Podcast, host Dr. Kathy Gosser interviews Alex Nessenthaler, Franchise Owner of Magnolia Bakery in Louisville, Kentucky, about her journey from corporate retail leadership to franchise ownership.Alex spent years in the fashion industry, most recently overseeing North American retail for Tory Burch. After a career that required frequent travel, she began reconsidering what success looked like for her family. She and her husband, Patrick, moved back to Louisville to raise their two young boys, and Alex explored entrepreneurship as a way to continue building brands while creating more flexibility.After evaluating several industries, she discovered that Magnolia Bakery, a brand she already loved, was beginning to franchise. Her experience in retail operations, leadership, customer experience, and brand development helped make her a strong fit.Alex discusses becoming one of Magnolia Bakery’s earliest franchisees, including a month of hands-on training in New York across bakery operations. She explains the importance of brand standards, operational consistency, and active ownership when bringing an established brand into a new market.Recorded just one week after the Louisville location opened, the conversation also covers the realities of launching a food and beverage business, including staffing, seasonality, customer expectations, and the fast pace of daily operations.Leadership remains central to Alex’s approach. She shares her belief that “happy people make happy business” and explains how building a motivated team directly affects the customer experience.Alex also discusses the support she receives from Magnolia Bakery, the importance of the franchisor-franchisee partnership, and her plans to open three Louisville locations while exploring additional growth across Kentucky and nearby markets.For anyone considering franchise ownership or leaving a corporate career for entrepreneurship, Alex’s story offers a practical look at how leadership experience and brand-building skills can translate into business ownership.Topics Covered in This EpisodeTransitioning from corporate leadership to franchise ownershipChoosing the right franchise opportunityBecoming an early franchisee of an established brandFranchise training and maintaining brand standardsLaunching a food and beverage businessBuilding and leading a motivated teamCreating strong customer experiencesThe franchisor-franchisee relationshipBalancing entrepreneurship and family prioritiesGrowing through additional locations, catering, partnerships, and community engagement Time Stamps00:00 Redefining Success01:29 From Fashion to Tory Burch03:48 Why She Left Corporate05:01 Finding Magnolia Through Franchising07:02 Winning the Franchise08:40 Training and Quality Standards09:30 Early Franchisee Impact12:12 Product Passion and Menu13:30 Opening Day in Louisville15:01 Building a Happy Team16:02 Fast Pace of Food18:21 Support From Magnolia HQ20:42 Franchise Partnership Playbook24:05 Doubts and New Success26:08 Growth Plans and Community27:34 Lessons and Closing Thoughts

In this special episode of FranchiseU, co-host Dr. Zac Goldman sits down with fellow University of Louisville colleague and longtime corporate leader Dr. Kathy Gosser to explore the enduring leadership philosophy of Colonel Harland Sanders. Dr. Gosser shares firsthand insights from her 35-year career at KFC and Yum! Brands, breaking down how a simple roadside restaurant transformed into a global fast-food empire through radical persistence, trust, and a commitment to doing things the "Hard Way." Together, they discuss how Sanders' core principles shaped the culture of KFC and Yum! Brands by providing 11 timeless Leadership Lessons.________________________________________ What You'll Learn in This Episode:The Power of Reinvention: How Colonel Sanders rebuilt his business from scratch after highway construction bypassed his original roadside restaurant.The 1,009 Rejections: Why ultimate persistence is the secret weapon for any aspiring entrepreneur or franchise founder.The "Nickel a Head" Handshake: How early franchise expansion relied entirely on trust, relationship-building, and mutual respect.The Origin of the KFC Name: The story behind franchisee Pete Harman naming the iconic brand.The Importance of Brand Quality: Why simplicity, consistency, and a "back to basics" approach are vital to scaling a global supply chain.Leadership Creating Legacy: How the KFC Foundation continues Sanders' mission through education and scholarships.How Relationships ARE the Brand: Trust between the franchisor and franchisee is the ultimate currency for sustainable growth.How Continuous Learning is Paramount: Great leaders never stop acquiring knowledge, a trait that defined Sanders' life.Examples of a Service-First Mindset: True business success comes from serving both your end customers and your internal franchise partners. About Your Hosts Dr. Kathy GosserDr. Kathy Gosser joined the University of Louisville College of Business faculty in 2019 following an illustrious 35-year career at Yum! Brands. Her final role at the corporation was Director of Learning & Organizational Development, alongside serving as the Chair of the KFC Foundation. She holds a PhD in Educational Leadership and Organizational Development and an MBA from UofL, as well as a BA in Journalism from Indiana University. Dr. Zachary “Zac” GoldmanDr. Zachary Goldman is an academic leader and faculty member in the University of Louisville College of Business, serving as Chair of the Department of Management & Entrepreneurship. As the Director of Online Teaching & Learning and the founding Program Director of the Online MBA, he designs innovative, student-centered digital education. His research focuses on leadership, communication, and integrating AI and analytics responsibly into business education. Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, join your host, Dr. Kathy Gosser, for a candid conversation with Jon Utterback, an Indiana educator, coach, and multi-brand franchise owner who has built a second career in entrepreneurship while spending more than 30 years teaching high school social studies and coaching football, wrestling, and golf. Based in Plainfield, Jon co-owns and operates Mosquito Joe, The Brothers That Just Do Gutters, and a Christmas lighting business, translating the leadership lessons of the classroom and the field into scalable service companies. In this episode, Jon reflects on his transition from public school teacher to franchise operator, the realities of growing multiple brands at once, and the discipline required to build strong teams and sustain customer loyalty. He discusses the critical role of franchisor support, the need to adapt to shifting market conditions, and the practical systems that make service businesses succeed. A devoted husband and father of two elite-level volleyball players, Jon brings a perspective grounded in resilience, accountability, and long-term growth. The result is an honest, experience driven look at what it takes to lead in education, athletics, and franchising. Key Highlights Include: · Jon's Journey into Franchising· Expanding to Multiple Brands· Leadership and Team Building· Business Synergies· Advice for Aspiring Franchisees Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Your host, Dr. Kathy Gosser, sits down with Carriann Sillman, in house counsel for the Coldwell Banker Real Estate franchise system and Vice President of Legal at Anywhere Real Estate, Inc.. Carriann shares her inspiring, non-traditional journey to legal leadership, balancing family, work, and night school. She discusses the dynamic role of legal strategy in a massive franchise system, emphasizing the importance of judgment, trust, and teamwork. Carriann also delves into the complexities and challenges franchisors face today, the critical balance between supporting franchisees and protecting the brand, and offers valuable advice for aspiring legal leaders and women pursuing non-traditional career paths. Key Highlights Include: Carriann Sillman's Unconventional Path to LawCareer Growth and Legal LeadershipDay-to-Day Work as Chief Legal OfficerLegal Complexities in FranchisingAdvice for Aspiring Franchise Lawyers Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser explores the exceptional journey of Donny Bradley, founder of Lola Beans, a fast-growing coffee brand. Starting from a career in medical device sales, Donny's path took a radical turn after discovering Alaska's iconic coffee shacks. The episode covers his transition to entrepreneurship, the inspiration drawn from Alaskan coffee culture, and the importance of good energy and customer connections in building the brand. Donny also discusses the challenges and surprises of becoming a franchisor, the importance of finding the right franchisees, and the role of his family in making Lola Beans a success. Key Highlights Include:The Alaskan Inspiration and the Transition from Medical Sales to CoffeeThe Importance of TeamworkThe Coffee Industry's Growth PotentialDetails of a Unique Franchising Journey The Importance of Having the Right TeamCreating a Positive CultureReal Estate and Site SelectionQualities of Ideal FranchiseesPride in Family and Team Interested in Franchising? Lola Beans FranchisingClick below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

In this episode of FranchiseU!, Dr. Kathy Gosser sits down with Brian Goldstein, President and Owner of Fulenwider Enterprises, to explore one of the most remarkable career journeys in the restaurant industry. Brian started at Taco Bell at just 16½ years old and worked his way up through nearly every leadership position imaginable, ultimately serving as COO of KFC and leading its national operations turnaround. After 32 years in corporate leadership, Brian switched to the franchisee side, where he now is partial owner of Fulenwider Enterprises, which operates nearly 160 Taco Bell and KFC locations across the Southeast. He shares how he built a winning culture rooted in respect, people development, and operational excellence. Brian also breaks down the keys to a high-performing franchise system, the value of strong franchisor relationships, and what it truly takes to grow a thriving multi-unit organization. Listeners will hear Brian’s insights on:Brian's Journey from Taco Bell employee to being a KFC Corporate SuccessBalancing Family and BusinessThe ‘Best On Block’ PhilosophyWhat Makes a Great FranchisorServing on Franchisee BoardsAdvice for Aspiring FranchiseesChallenges of Franchise Ownership Beyond business, Brian shares a look into his life in Belmont, NC, where he enjoys time outdoors with his wife Barbara, their three children, and four grandchildren. From gardening and ATV riding to supporting military families, St. Jude, Boys & Girls Clubs, and hunger relief efforts, Brian’s commitment to service extends far beyond the restaurants he leads. This episode is packed with leadership lessons, heartfelt stories, and practical advice for anyone looking to grow in franchising—or inspire their teams to greatness. Click below to listen and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you enjoy your favorite shows. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

What does it take to build more than 160 McAlister’s Deli restaurants, lead nearly 8,000 employees, and still live by the motto “Have fun. No regrets.”? In this episode of FranchiseU!, host Dr. Kathy Gosser interviews David Blackburn, founder, former CEO, and current chairman of Southern Rock Restaurants, the largest McAlister’s Deli franchisee in the United States. From his humble start at Bonanza to leading one of America’s top restaurant franchise groups, David shares an inspiring story of growth, leadership, and purpose. With over 45 years of restaurant industry experience, David’s career has taken him from busboy to executive leadership, including serving as vice president of operations and business development for O’Charley’s Restaurants during its peak years. In 2006, he made the leap into restaurant entrepreneurship, launching Southern Rock Restaurants and expanding it into a multi-state powerhouse with 164 locations across 13 states. Along the way, he also owned upscale steak and Italian restaurants, proving his ability to succeed across diverse dining concepts. In this episode, David reveals his franchise leadership strategies, lessons in multi-unit operations, and the guiding principles that fuel sustainable success. He discusses the role of family involvement, the impact of trusted partners like Compel4 Accounting, and why he believes business should be as fun as it is meaningful. Now leading a growing multi-brand restaurant platform pursuing new acquisitions, David reflects on what it means to lead with purpose, grow with vision, and live with no regrets. This episode of FranchiseU! is a must-listen for anyone passionate about franchise growth, restaurant leadership, and entrepreneurial inspiration. Topics discussed include:· David Blackburn's Career Journey· Leadership Lessons from O'Charley's· The meaning of ‘Have Fun, No Regrets’· Family and Business at Southern Rock· Managing Multi-Unit Operations· Multi-Unit Operations Management Tips· Effective Communication and Daily Routines· Franchise Advisory Council Insights Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.

What do combat missions, data analytics, and warm cookies fresh from the oven all have in common? That is all part of my guest's incredible journey. Today I am joined by Nicholas Jewel, who is a decorated veteran-turned-entrepreneur, and now a multi-unit franchisee of Crumbl Cookies. While earning two Bronze stars as a combat controller in the Air National Guard, Nicholas led with courage, innovation, and resilience. Now he is channeling those skills into one of the fastest growing brands in franchising. You will hear how he made the leap from the military to franchising and what it takes to grow multiple units. You will also hear his advice for anyone dreaming of entrepreneurship, please take a listen.Nicholas Jewell is a multi-unit Crumbl Cookies franchisee in the Louisville Metro area. Nicholas’s path to franchising is anything but ordinary, spanning military service, entrepreneurship, logistics, and now cookie domination. He served 11 years as a combat controller in the Air National Guard, earning two Bronze Stars before shifting his focus to business. He founded a logistics company during the pandemic, completed a Master of Science in Business Analytics at the University of Louisville, and was recognized as a Louisville Business First 40 Under 40 honoree. Today, he is preparing to open his third Crumbl Cookies location, with plans for more growth on the horizon. What You’ll Learn In This Episode:Why franchising is not truly “passive income”—and the reality behind scaling a brand.How Nicholas's military background shaped his approach to teamwork, resilience, and leadership.The unique appeal of Crumbl Cookies’ open kitchen, rotating menu, and tech-driven customer experience.Advice for veterans considering franchising or entrepreneurship.Nicholas’s “3 C’s of Leadership”: Being Clear, Consistent, and Caring.The balance between corporate systems and local community engagement in franchising. Don’t miss out on all things FranchiseU!:Website: FranchiseU!Instagram: @franchiseu_podcastFacebook: @FranchiseU PodcastTwitter: @franchiseupodTikTok: @franchiseupod Reach out directly to Dr. Kathy Gosser via LinkedIn. This episode proudly brought to you by the Yum! Center for Global Franchise Excellence at the University of Louisville College of Business.